Postdoc position: Advanced induced human systems to model neurodegenerative disease

eventually use this knowledge to stratify Parkinson's disease; and 2) running CRISPR screens on hiPSC-derived neurons and glia to disentangle the complex genetic interactions that underlie disease causation. Your job You will work with a team of scientists interested in (1) mechanisms of neurodegeneration, (2) cellular determinants of disease, (3) functional genomics, (3) the development of translational strategies in circuit neuroscience and (4) the development of computational models and methods for neuroscience. The goal is to implement advanced brain-on-chip models and CRISPR-based screens and methodologies to generate mechanistic insights, with the ultimate goal of combating Parkinson's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. You will have access to excellent support facilities, including facilities at VIB, KU Leuven, the Flemish supercomputer and many more. Your Profile We are seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic, critical and creative individual to join our team.

The candidate should have a strong background in iPSC modelling and the use of CRISPR tools and an interest in neurodegenerative diseases. Essential: You obtained a PhD in life sciences, engineering, or equivalent A solid publication record with research publication(s) in peer-reviewed international journals Experience in molecular biology, single cell approaches, imaging and electrophysiology are a plus Team player and great collaborator Strong interest in interdisciplinary work at the interface between neurodegeneration, modeling, screening and machine learning Prior experience in iPSC modelling and CRISPR tools Our Offer A stimulating, international, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and supportive work environment, which emphasizes diversity and inclusion An environment that promotes personal development. In particular, a dedicated training program to broaden your expertise and enhance your skill set Scientific guidance at an internationally recognized

high-level State of the art research facilities State of the art computing facilities A competitive compensation package based on expertise and experience Financial support for at least 2 years. The successful candidate is encouraged to obtain a personal fellowship (Marie-Curie, HFSP, EMBO, or national funding organizations) Starting Date: as soon as possible How to apply? Please complete the online application tool (https://jobs.vib.be/apply/130828) and include a motivation letter, a detailed CV, including a list of publications, and the contact information of three referees. We are happy to receive applications until March 1st, 2026. For more information contact patrik.verstreken@kuleuven.be or carles.calatayud@kuleuven.be. https://verstrekenlab.sites.vib.be https://vibneuroscienceleuven.be https://vib.be Find out more: Website | Video | Virtual Tour Follow us on: LinkedIn | Instagram | Bluesky

VIB's core mission is to generate disruptive insights in the molecular underpinning of life and to translate these actively into impactful innovations for patients and society. VIB is an independent research institute where some 1,800 top scientists from Belgium and abroad conduct pioneering basic research. As such, they are pushing the boundaries of what we know about molecular mechanisms and how they rule living organisms such as human beings, animals, plants, and microorganisms. Based on a close partnership with five Flemish universities - Ghent University, KU Leuven, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, and Hasselt University - and supported by a solid funding program, VIB unites the expertise of all its collaborators and research groups in a single institute. VIB's technology transfer activities translate research results into concrete benefits for society such as new diagnostics and therapies and agricultural innovations. These applications are often developed by young start-ups from VIB or through collaborations with other companies. This also leads to additional employment and bridges the gap between scientific research and entrepreneurship. VIB also engages actively in the public debate on biotechnology by developing and disseminating a wide range of science-based information.