Emplois actuels liés à Postdoctoral Fellow - Leuven - VIB

**Research Project**:
“Linking human-specific synaptic developmental timing to early cortical circuit function and plasticity in ASD”

This project addresses a compelling hypothesis: that disruption in the uniquely human prolonged timeline of synapse development—synaptic neoteny—contributes to ASD. The project will explore how SYNGAP1 haploinsufficiency, a major monogenic cause of ASD, accelerates synaptic development and disrupts early sensory circuit function. A central goal is to understand how these effects are shaped by human-specific SRGAP2 genes, which regulate synaptic timing via SYNGAP1.

To achieve this, we will use:

- Xenotransplantation models of human cortical neurons into mouse brain
- In vivo 2-photon Ca²⁺ imaging, visual plasticity paradigms, and behavioral analysis
- Transgenic mouse models combining SYNGAP1 mutations with humanized SRGAP2C expression

This interdisciplinary work will shed light on the developmental origins of circuit dysfunction in ASD and inform the timing of potential therapeutic interventions.

**About the Labs**:
The Bonin Lab, led by Dr. Vincent Bonin (Associate Professor, KU Leuven; Principal Investigator, VIB), investigates the physiological basis of sensory behavior and brain circuit organization. The lab focuses on how visual information is processed in the brain to guide perception and behavior. Their multidisciplinary team combines in vivo physiology, circuit tracing, imaging, and behavior.

The Vanderhaeghen Lab, led by Dr. Pierre Vanderhaeghen (Professor at KU Leuven; Principal Investigator at VIB), investigates the development and evolution of the human brain, with a focus on human-specific genetic programs, synaptic neoteny, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

The labs are located at NERF and VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research is part of the VIB Life Sciences Institute and is embedded within KU Leuven, one of the world’s top 50 universities, offering a dynamic and collaborative research environment.

More information:

- Bonin Lab at NERF
- Farrow Lab at NERF
- Vanderhaeghen Lab CBD

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative neuroscientist with a strong interest in neural development, synaptic plasticity, and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Required Qualifications:

- PhD (or MSc for PhD applicants) in Neuroscience, Neurobiology, or related field
- Experience with in vivo imaging, electrophysiology, optogenetics, or behavioral assays
- Strong data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB)

Preferred Qualifications:

- Experience with stem cell-derived neurons or xenotransplantation
- Interest in cortical circuit plasticity or ASD models
- Background in sensory processing or visual behavior

Outstanding Master’s students interested in pursuing a PhD are also encouraged to apply.

**What We Offer**:

- A vibrant, collaborative, and internationally recognized research environment
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities: 2-photon/3-photon imaging, Neuropixels, optogenetics, behavioral setups
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Guaranteed funding for at least 2 years, with encouragement to pursue fellowships (e.g., Marie-Curie, EMBO, FWO)
- Integration into a dynamic scientific community across **NERF**, **VIB**, and **KU Leuven**

**Application Process**:
Please submit:

- CV (including full publication list and preprints)
- Motivation letter and brief research statement
- Contact information for 2-3 references

**Deadline**

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

**Connect with us**:

- LinkedIn:
Neuro-Electronics Research Flanders (NERF)

VIB-KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research

VIB.AI

**Discover our lab and centers**:

- Explore our virtual tour

**Follow us on social media**:

- nerflabs.bsky.social on Bluesky
- virtual tour

**Diversity & Inclusion**:
By embracing the unique perspectives and experiences of our team members, we aim to foster innovation and advance excellence in neuroscience research. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace is essential for scientific creativity, effective collaboration, and impactful discovery.