Doctoral researcher in Translational Neuroscience

The University of Luxembourg, a leading international research university, is offering a PhD position in Translational Neuroscience within its Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM). The successful candidate will join the Translational Neuroscience team led by Professor Rejko KRÜGER, focusing on the identification of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for Parkinson's disease. The team employs a 'bed to bench to bedside' approach, integrating fundamental and clinical research to advance understanding and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Research activities center on induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neuronal models to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in familial and idiopathic Parkinson's disease, Dementia with Lewy bodies, atypical parkinsonism (such as PSP or MSA), and REM sleep behaviour disorder. The project specifically targets GBA1-associated Parkinson's disease, aiming to validate small-molecule compounds that rescue disease-associated cellular phenotypes in iPSC-derived neuronal models and midbrain organoids. This work supports the development of precision therapeutic approaches for genetically stratified PD subgroups. Key responsibilities include generating iPSCs from patient-donated fibroblasts, differentiating iPSCs into midbrain dopaminergic neurons and organoids for phenotyping and compound testing, performing high content imaging and automated image analysis, analyzing omics data, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams of computational biologists, neuroscientists, and clinicians. The candidate will also prepare manuscripts, reports, and present findings at national and international conferences. Applicants should have a Master's degree in biology, neuroscience, pharmacology, or a related field, with a strong background in experimental cellular neuroscience, cell culture, and molecular biology. Hands-on experience with iPSC culture and neuronal differentiation is preferred, and experience with cellular phenotyping (including lysosomal and/or mitochondrial profiling) is advantageous. Programming skills in R and/or Python and familiarity with bioinformatic image analysis are desirable. Excellent organizational and analytical skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment, are required. Language proficiency at B2-level or higher in the thesis language is mandatory. The University of Luxembourg offers a modern, dynamic, and multilingual environment, with high-quality equipment and close ties to the business world and Luxembourg labour market. The position is based at the Belval Campus and is part of the National Centre for Excellence in Research on Parkinson's Disease (NCER-PD), originally funded by the Luxembourg National Research Fund. The contract is for 36 months, full-time (40 hours per week), with a yearly gross salary of EUR 41976 for PhD candidates. Applications should be submitted online via the University of Luxembourg HR system, including a CV, cover letter, and transcripts. Early applications are encouraged as they will be processed upon reception. The university promotes an inclusive culture and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.