PhD in the Innate Antiviral Immunity and Autoinflammation

We are looking for a highly motivated PhD student to join the Nucleic Acid Immunity Lab at the VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation Research.

Lab website: https://www.irc.ugent.be/groups/maelfait-lab

Research Project

Nucleic acids are potent triggers of immune responses. The presence of virus-derived RNA or DNA molecules activates nucleic acid sensors inside the host cell, which stimulates protective antiviral immune responses. The recognition of viral nucleic acids by the immune system is important in the context of virus infection. However, unwanted recognition of endogenous nucleic acids underlies the development of genetic autoinflammatory diseases.

Using techniques in cell biology, molecular biology and biophysics you will investigate how loss of function of the RNA editing enzyme ADAR1 causes the human genetic autoinflammatory diseases Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome. Your project will be part of a bigger effort, funded by an ERC Consolidator Grant, to understand the functions of the poorly understood left-handed Z-form nucleic acids in innate antiviral immunity.

Profile

• You have recently obtained or will soon be obtaining a Master degree in a Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering, or related fields.
• Enthusiasm for fundamental science and attention to detail.
• Motivation to work with an international team of PhD students, postdocs and technicians.
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English.

We offer

• A doctoral scholarship for a period of 1 year to start with. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship will be renewed for an additional 3 years.
• In parallel, the applicant will be expected to actively seek independent funding and will be fully assisted in applying for personal fellowships, such as FWO PhD fellowships.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and training in advanced techniques.
• Opportunities for career development, networking, and mentorship.
• A highly stimulating and supporting international research environment.
• Start date: as soon as possible.

How to apply?

Interested candidates can apply through the VIB online application tool. Please upload:

• Your curriculum vitae.
• A motivation letter detailing your research interests, experience and motivation to join the team.
• Contact information of 2 references.
• University degree transcripts.

A shortlist of applicants will be selected and invited for interviews. For further information and questions, please send an email to Prof. Jonathan Maelfait (jonathan.maelfait@irc.vib-ugent.be).