(ref. BAP-2026-361)
Laatst aangepast: 14/06/26
The VIB-KU Leuven Center for Neuroscience is part of the VIB Life Sciences Institute and embedded within the University of Leuven. We are now recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to join the Flemish Cognitive Compass Project, a multidisciplinary collaboration between VIB and the Universities of Leuven, Ghent and Antwerp. The project aims to improve early detection of Alzheimer’s disease and to identify novel pathways and targets for disease‑modifying therapies.
We are seeking to recruit a postdoctoral researcher to establish an iPSC biobank for Alzheimer’s disease research and to drive in vitro drug target and mechanistic discovery efforts using 3D triple culture system based on iPSCs. The cell lines will be derived from participants of the Flemish Cognitive Compass who show genotypes and biomarker phenotypes relevant to Alzheimer’s disease.
Key responsibilities:
Coordinate the derivation, quality control and biobanking of participant-derived iPSC lines, in collaboration with clinical partners, core facilities and/or contract research organisations.
Establish and oversee a 3D neuronal-microglial-astrocyte co-culture platform, including workflow optimisation, automatisation, equipment procurement and SOP development.
Conduct mechanistic studies using the triple co-culture platform, addressing both fundamental and translational questions in Alzheimer’s disease.
General & Professional skills
- PhD degree (or equivalent) in Biomedical Sciences, Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, or related field.
- Strong expertise in molecular and cellular neurobiology and working with iPSCs.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary setting.
- Excellent organisational skills.
- Strong attention to detail, data integrity and scientific rigour.
- Fluency in written and spoken English.
In vitro skills
- Hands-on experience with iPSC derivation, QC, maintenance and differentiation.
- Experience with 3D and co-culture in vitro models of the central nervous system.
- Experience with cell-based assays and plate-based screening.
- Strong track record of accurate data generation, documentation and experimental reporting.
- A key role in a multi-university research programme with high societal relevance and a strong translational angle.
- A stimulating, diverse and international research environment within a world-class laboratory focused on Alzheimer’s disease.
- Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure.
- A competitive compensation package commensurate with expertise and experience.
- Start date: as soon as possible; the position is available immediately.
Discover the Center by visiting the website
Connect through our LinkedIn page
Looking around in our a virtual tour
Follow the Center on Bluesky
Follow the Center on Instagram
Please complete the online application procedure and include a motivation letter describing previous research experience, along with a detailed CV.
You can apply for this job no later than July 15, 2026 via the online application tool
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
Heb je een vraag over de online sollicitatieprocedure? Raadpleeg onze veelgestelde vragen of stuur een e-mail naar [email protected]
av_timer Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds
location_city Locatie: Leuven
timer Solliciteren tot en met:
15/07/2026 23:59 CET
bookmarks Tags: Neurowetenschappen
