1. You obtained a Master degree in Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field or you are equivalent through experience.
2. You have preferably at least 5 years of research experience in Molecular Cell Biology, Biochemistry or Neurobiology (or in a related field).
3. Strong interest in, and preferably knowledge of, cellular transport processes and neurodegenerative diseases.
4. Profound expertise in standard molecular laboratory techniques, including cell culture, Western blotting, FACS, (q)PCR, confocal/super-resolution microscopy.
5. Experience with specialized laboratory techniques, such as membrane protein purification, biochemical activity assays, and biophysical techniques, and the ability to convey this knowledge in a didactic manner.
6. Capable of coordinating various aspects of a research group, including project coordination and execution, student supervision, and reporting.
7. Ability to manage research projects within an international, multicultural, and multidisciplinary team.
8. Experience in presenting scientific results in English to a scientific audience.
9. Experience in and willingness to engage in teaching. A teaching certification is a plus.
10. Strong organizational skills, ability to multitask, work independently, and maintain a cooperative and supportive attitude.
11. Fluent in English, both orally and in writing.
12. Contribute to the coordination and execution of multiple research lines within the fundamental research program of the group, ensuring a high methodological and organizational standard. Assist with the administrative support and practical preparation of new projects.
13. Provide daily supervision of rotation and master's thesis students, monitoring their experimental work, assisting with data analysis, result interpretation, and report/thesis writing. Offer constructive feedback based on their efforts and capabilities.
14. Have expertise in biochemical, biophysical, and molecular cell biology techniques and actively explore the latest literature to implement new techniques in ongoing projects.
15. Independently prepare reports and communicate research findings, both orally and in writing, for presentations within the team, to the supervisor, and to international partners.
16. Contribute to the writing and development of research projects, as well as the funding applications necessary for their execution. Assist in the reporting to funding agencies.
17. Act as the point of contact for PhD students and lab technicians within the LCTS research group, supporting their projects, providing guidance, and monitoring their progress.
18. Be capable of presenting scientific results in English to a diverse (international) audience.
19. Assist in educational support within the department by leading practical sessions, tutorials, and smaller teaching assignments.
The Laboratory of Cellular Transport Systems at KU Leuven, led by Prof. Peter Vangheluwe, studies cellular transport processes involved in neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, and cancer (Van Veen and Martin et al., Nature, 2020; Vrijsen and Besora-Casals, PNAS, 2021; Vrijsen et al., Annu Rev Biochem, 2023; Azfar et al., BBA, 2022).The research focuses on the transporters ATP13A2 and ATP13A3, using biochemical techniques on purified proteins and cell models in which transporter expression is modulated. The goal is to gain detailed insights into the biochemical properties and regulation of these transporters, laying the foundation for new therapeutic strategies.To strengthen this research, the group is looking for a motivated researcher and coordinator for biochemistry projects within an international research program focused on Parkinson’s disease.
20. A dynamic and inspiring research environment at KU Leuven.
21. The opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research on Parkinson’s disease.
22. Collaboration with leading international partners.
23. We offer a full-time position with an open-ended contract in a stimulating, intellectual, and internationally oriented research lab, where you will have the opportunity to develop your skills.
24. If you are immediately qualified for all aspects of this position, you will start in grade 8. Promising candidates who require additional training will start in grade 7. Grade 9 is exceptionally reserved for candidates who, due to their extensive knowledge and experience, can take on extra responsibilities right from the start.