1 PhD Studentship position in Biomedical Sciences in Belgium | KU Leuven

KU Leuven is the largest and top university in Belgium and is an autonomous, research-intensive, internationally oriented university carrying out both fundamental as well as applied research. The Laboratory of Cellular Transport Systems has a strong and international research tradition in the field of cellular ion homeostasis and ion transport mechanisms. P-type ATPases generate vital ion gradients and drive vesicular transport in our cells. Transport defects are associated with various human disorders, making P-type ATPases valuable drug targets. Our research covers a wide spectrum of research methodologies to study P-type ATPases, ranging from molecular/structural to cell-biological and animal model research. We seek out to understand the molecular properties and regulation of several P-type ATPases to identify and develop novel therapeutic strategies. The lab represents a dynamic and international research environment, offering opportunities to collaborate with other research teams on campus and abroad. Our research has been published in reputed journals including Proc Nat Acad Sci USA, J Biol Chem, Circ Res and Circulation etc.

Project

Our lab developed a broad range of molecular tools and methodologies for the study of ATP13A2, a novel and uncharacterized transporter that plays a central role in autophagy and Parkinson’s disease. We opened a position for a PhD student who would like to perform ground-braking research on the unexplored molecular and cell biological role of ATP13A2. The aim of the project is to identify the cellular function of ATP13A2 and explore its biochemical properties and regulation. The role of ATP13A2 in lysosomal function and autophagy will be addressed in cellular models of Parkinson’s disease and in ATP13A2 knock-out mice.

Profile

To be eligible, the candidate should have a master degree and a strong (theoretical and/or preferably practical) background in basic molecular cell biological techniques, coupled with a keen interest in transport biology and autophagy. We’re looking for a dedicated, motivated and amenable researcher who’s eager to work in a multi-disciplinary team.

Offer

We guarantee a fellowship of 4 years to complete a PhD in Biomedical Sciences at KU Leuven, Belgium.

Interested?

You can apply for this job no later than January 31, 2014 by sending your CV, picture, motivation letter and reference letter(s) to Αυτή η διεύθυνση Email προστατεύεται από τους αυτοματισμούς αποστολέων ανεπιθύμητων μηνυμάτων. Χρειάζεται να ενεργοποιήσετε τη JavaScript για να μπορέσετε να τη δείτε..

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