"Joint postdoc position to establish next-generation humanized models"

The Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences is looking for a full-time (100%) senior researcher to establish next-generation humanized models for studying peripheral neuroimmunity in Parkinson’s disease.

The Laboratories for Gut-Immune-Brain Axis Research (GIBA, Prof. Seppe De Schepper) and the Microglia and Inflammation in Neurological Disorders lab (MIND, Prof. Renzo Mancuso) at the VIB–Center for Molecular Neurology are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to establish next-generation humanized and engraftment models for studying peripheral neuroimmune mechanisms driving Parkinson’s disease.

Building on recent advances in iPSC-derived xenotransplantation models and supported by the Horizon Europe (ERC), we aim to extend these approaches towards new tools and organ systems to better understand how human immune cells interact with α-synuclein pathology in the earliest events of Parkinson’s disease.

Position

• Lead an ERC-funded pioneering research line at the interface of neuroimmunology, stem cell biology, and neurodegeneration.
• Contribute to the setup and optimization of novel xenotransplantation models.
• Collaborate across VIB (GIBA and MIND labs, amongst others) and international partners to integrate immunology, stem cell technology, and Parkinson’s biology.
• Supervise junior colleagues, contribute to grant writing, and disseminate findings through high-impact publications.

Profile

• PhD in neuroscience, immunology, stem cell biology, or related discipline.
• Proven expertise in Parkinson’s disease models and iPSC-derived in vivo systems (xenotransplantation or related).
• Strong publication record and independent research drive.
• Experience in working with mouse models (FELASA B or C required).
• Experience with advanced imaging/omics and CRISPR/Cas9 technology is a plus.
• Team-oriented, innovative, and motivated to push boundaries in translational neuroimmunology.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.

What we offer

• A full-time contract as a senior researcher initially for 2 years. You will be encouraged to apply for personal fellowships.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support cutting-edge research.
• Opportunities to collaborate with top researchers in neurodegeneration, immunology and neurogenetics.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• If you come to the lab by public transport; full reimbursement.
• If you come to the lab by bike; bike allowance.
• Eco-cheques.
• Closing week between Christmas and New Year.
• Professional development through regular mentorship, training opportunities, and collaborative projects.
• The planned starting date is 1 January 2026.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.

Want to apply?

You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform. Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments: a cover letter detailing your research interests, experience and motivation to join the team; a curriculum vitae, including a list of publications; contact information for two references.

The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible. If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact professor Sebastiaan De Schepper (sebastiaan.deschepper@uantwerpen.be) or professor Renzo Mancuso (Renzo.mancuso@uantwerpen.be).