PhD position in Chemical and Molecular Neurobiology

About the LCSB

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB) is an interdisciplinary research centre of the University of Luxembourg.
We conduct fundamental and translational research in the field of Systems Biology and Biomedicine - in the lab, in the clinic and in silico. We focus on neurodegenerative processes and are especially interested in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and their contributing factors. The LCSB recruits talented scientists from various disciplines: computer scientists, mathematicians, biologists, chemists, engineers, physicists and clinicians from more than 50 countries currently work at the LCSB. We excel because we are truly interdisciplinary, and together we contribute to science and society.

Your role

You will join the recently established Chemical and Molecular Neurobiology group led by Associate Prof. Ivana Nikić-Spiegel at the LCSB. Our research combines innovative approaches in protein engineering, microscopy, and chemical biology to investigate neuroimmune interactions and mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration, both through in vitro studies and in the context of neurological diseases.

We focus on understanding how axons maintain their structure and function, and how these processes break down in disease. You will have the opportunity to contribute to one of our ongoing projects addressing questions such as:

• What roles do ion channels, cytoskeletal dynamics, and axonal transport play during axonal injury and neurological diseases?
• How can minimally invasive, bioorthogonal click chemistry-based labeling strategies be further developed and optimized for live-cell imaging, super-resolution microscopy, and cell-specific proteomics?
• How do neurons, glial cells, and immune cells communicate, and how can chemical biology help us address these interactions in health and disease?
• What molecular mechanisms drive neuroinflammation and axonal damage in multiple sclerosis?

For more information, please visit our website or contact Ivana Nikić-Spiegel: ivana.nikic(at)uni.lu.

Your profile

• A Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field such as molecular biology, neurobiology, or chemical biology
• A solid background in molecular biology and cell culture techniques, applied in either neurobiology or chemical biology research
• Experience in cell/molecular biology techniques or fluorescence microscopy is required; expertise in both is a strong advantage
• Experience with iPSC-derived cells, primary neuronal or glial cultures, or mouse models is a strong plus
• Familiarity with super-resolution imaging techniques and/or proteomics workflows is a strong plus
• Strong computational and organizational skills, with attention to detail
• High level of reliability and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset
• Fluency in English is required

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for applying to a PhD position in our team
• Copies of diplomas and academic transcripts
• Contact information of at least 2 referees

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Belval Campus
• Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
• Job Reference: UOL07663

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 41976 (full time).