PhD Position in Molecular Immunology

(ref. BAP-2022-752)

Laatst aangepast :

13/10/2022

The Adaptive Immunity Lab performs fundamental and translational research in the areas of T cell biology (particularly regulatory T cells or Treg) to identify regulators of (regulatory) T cell homeostasis, function and lineage stability.
Research lines in the lab include the study of epitranscriptomic regulators in immune cells, Treg functional stability and plasticity, and the development of Treg targeting therapeutics.

Project

We are looking for a motivated and skilled PhD student to join our research team at the intersection of RNA modifications (epitranscriptomics) and immunology.

This research line aims at the functional dissection of epitranscriptomic modifiers in vivo and in vitro – in mouse and human immune cells – with focus on the underexplored field of pseudouridylation (short Psi). Psi is among the most frequent RNA modifications, yet studies in immune cells are only being initiated. RNA modifications in general are only recently receiving attention in mammalian research with the advent of appropriate techniques/technologies. For the study of Psi in murine/human immune cells we utilize in vivo models for screening and functional validation,perform in vitro cell assays as applicable and extent the knowledge gained from murine cells to human cells. Several required methods have been established promising a smooth project start. Further, KU Leuven hosts state-of-the-art infrastructure / core facilities such as for high-parameter flow cytometry,cell sorting, and (spatial) transcriptomics to support the study.

Profile

The ideal candidate

• holds a MSc/Masters’ degree in a relevant field
• holds a FELASA B or C certificate or an equivalent recognized in Europe
• has experience and background in immunological research and techniques such as cell culture, mouse handling (such as i.v./i.p.injections), flow cytometry, basic molecular biology skills (such as RNA preparation, molecular cloning)
• has experience with omics analyses relevant to this project

• has fluency in spoken and written English
• has excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills including collaborative spirit, clear communication, strong sense of responsibility, scientific integrity, intrinsic motivation, thriving for independence

Key responsibilities:

• Performing experiments dealing withmolecular/cellular biology

• Performing animal experiments (mice)

• Performing analyses of obtained data usingvarious analysis software/tools including statistical analyses
• Supervision of undergraduate students (internship or MSc thesis students)

Offer

• 4-year contract with possibility of extension (please note that we do encourage the candidate to apply for a personal PhD fellowship to be part of this program).
• A stimulating research environment in an internationally recognized research group that is embedded in the infrastructure of the KU Leuven.
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructures and active collaborations with well-known Belgian or international laboratories.

Interested?

Applicants should submit online a motivation letter, CV andthe names and emails of at least 2 references as well as their relation to the candidate (e.g. previouspromoter, supervisor, colleague).

Any questions can be directedto susan.schlenner@kuleuven.be

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment whereall talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background,nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibilityor support, please contact us at diversiteit.HR@kuleuven.be.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Susan Schlenner, tel.: +32 16 37 98 45, mail: susan.schlenner@kuleuven.be.

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at diversiteit.HR@kuleuven.be.