项目介绍

2025年12月29日

This PhD research will be performed in close collaboration between the Laboratory of Neurobiology, the Laboratory for Molecular Neurobiomarker Research and the ​​​​​Laboratory for Neurofysiology in Neurodegenerative disorders. The groups work together within the Leuven Center for ALS research (LEUCALS).

Website van de eenheid

Project

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join an interdisciplinary research project focused on the identification and validation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The overarching goal of the project is to translate molecular insights from transcriptomics and other omics datasets into robust, clinically relevant protein biomarkers.The successful candidate will validate candidate biomarkers in human CSF or plasma/serum using ultrasensitive immunoassay platforms, including NULISA and ELISA, with targets initially derived from RNA-sequencing–based bioinformatics analyses. In addition, the PhD candidate will be encouraged to independently explore large-scale omics datasets (e.g., bulk and single-cell RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, proteomics) to identify and prioritize novel biomarker candidates.This project is embedded in a strong collaborative environment at KU Leuven, combining experimental neuroscience, clinical research, and computational biology.Research Objectives• Validate ALS-associated biomarker candidates in CSF or plasma/serum using NULISA and ELISA-based assays• Translate transcriptomic signatures identified by RNA-seq bioinformatics into protein-level readouts• Perform quantitative data analysis and statistical evaluation of biomarker performance• Integrate transcriptomic and proteomic findings to refine biomarker selection• Independently mine and interpret omics datasets to identify additional biomarker candidates• Contribute to the development of biomarker panels with diagnostic and/or prognostic potential

Profile

The ideal candidate will have:• A Master’s degree in biomedical sciences, neuroscience, molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, or a related discipline• Strong interest in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly ALS• Hands-on experience or strong motivation to learn immunoassay techniques (ELISA, NULISA, or related platforms)• Interest in RNA-seq and multi-omics data analysis; prior experience with bioinformatics is an advantage but not mandatory• Ability to critically evaluate and integrate experimental and computational data• Strong analytical thinking, organizational skills, and scientific curiosity• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

Offer

• A PhD position at KU Leuven within an internationally recognized research environment to work towards obtaining a PhD degree from KU Leuven and become a well-trained, independent researcher• Guiding to attempt to obtain a PhD fellowship from  FWO-Vlaanderen• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory infrastructure and omics datasets• Close supervision and training in both experimental and computational approaches• Opportunities for collaboration with clinical and bioinformatics experts• Participation in international conferences and training programs• A stimulating and collegial research culture at one of Europe’s leading research universities
Application ProcedureInterested candidates should submit:• A motivation letter describing their research interests and suitability for the project• A detailed CV• Contact information for at least two academic referees

Interested?

For more information please contact Mrs. Geethika Arekatla, tel.: +32 16 32 52 71, mail: geethika.arekatla@kuleuven.be or Prof. dr. Philip Van Damme, mail:philip.vandamme@uzleuven.beYou can apply for this job no later than January 30, 2026 via the online application tool

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.