Postdoctoral position in electrophysiology of Alzheimer’s Disease

​γ-secretase is involved in Alzheimer's Disease (AD) since it produces the Amyloid-beta protein that aggregates in the amyloid plaques of AD patients (De Strooper, Neuron, 2003). Different γ-Secretase complexes exist that can regulate specific cognitive functions (Dejaegere al., PNAS, 2008; Serneels et al., Science, 2009). In addition to the production of Amyloid-beta, γ-Secretase controls other proteins that are important for neuronal function. Among them, we found APP, Notch and the schizophrenia risk genes Nrg1 and ErbB4 (Fazzari et al., Nature, 2010). However, the physiological role of γ-Secretase in the brain is still poorly understood. In this research project, we aim to determine the specific role of diverse γ-Secretase complexes in the maintenance of brain circuits.

The job will involve electrophysiological recordings in different mutant γ-secretase mice available in the lab in combination with selective genetic experiments at the cellular level using viral transduction to inactivate specific gamma-secretase complexes in different areas of the brain. There is ample opportunity to interact with a multidisciplinary and international team of dedicated scientists to unravel the molecular and cell biology role of the different γ-secretases.

We offer an excellent postdoctoral position in an international research institute in the center of Europe (close to Brussels and fast train connections to Paris, London, Cologne and Amsterdam), with access to high end technology, core facilities, technical support and a brand new research building. Good knowledge of English is sufficient for all communications both within and outside of the institute.

The starting date is flexible in the first half of 2012.

​We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher to study the role of the different γ-secretases in the establishment and maintenance of brain circuits. The candidate should have experience in electrophysiology in mouse brain. Candidates with specific experience in experimental settings such as LTP and LTD and patch clamp recordings in brain slices, are particularly encouraged to apply.
Candidates must have a PhD degree obtained in the last 5 years, or will obtain a PhD degree in the end of 2012 and should have a strong publication record.

​Please send your CV and motivation letter to Hilde Govaert

VIB Center for the Biology of Disease, K.U.Leuven
Onderwijs en Navorsing 4
Campus Gasthuisberg
Herestraat 49, box 602
3000 LEUVEN
BELGIUM