PhD in molecular neuroscience

Communication in the brain relies on the ability of neurons to generate electrical signals. The generation of action potentials occurs at a specialized axonal compartment, the axon initial segment. The axon initial segment is a critical checkpoint in the information flow: after integration of somato-dendritic inputs, the axon initial segment determines the neuron’s output which will be further transmitted along the axon to the next neurons in the network. The molecular composition of the axon initial segment is crucial in defining the response generated by a neuron. Recent work from my group and others have shown that the axon initial segment is highly adaptative and that this property allows neurons to tune their activity to their surrounding network. The aim of this project is to understand the molecular mechanisms controlling axon initial segment plasticity; how does this compartment reorganize in response to activity changes in various neuronal types?

In this project, you will use proteomics and transcriptomics analyses in combination with live-cell and super-resolution imaging to assess the changes in expression and dynamics of axon initial segment proteins at high spatio-temporal resolution. The work will be carried out in rodent dissociated neurons and slices.

You will be part of international research networks and exploit a variety of techniques and analysis tools available. You will be trained on site and in specialized courses on campus.

We are looking for a highly motivated student with the following qualifications:

• A master degree in life sciences, biomedical sciences or biophysics with neuroscience specialization;
• Hand-on experience with molecular and cellular neuroscience, especially the methods and/or models listed above;
• Hands-on experience with bioinformatics is an advantage;
• You are fluent in English (written and spoken) and have good communication skills;
• You are a team player and want to join a collaborative and dynamic group of science enthusiasts.

• A flying start to your career in scientific research;
• Plenty of room for your drive to shape tomorrow's healthcare
• Working on large-scale and in-house research, with motivated colleagues from all over the world;
• You will be employed by Amsterdam UMC Research BV;
• A contract for 12 months, with the intention to extend for a total of 4 years. The Guideline PhD contract applies to this vacancy;
• Salary scale OIO: € 3.017 to € 3.824 gross based on full-time employment (depending on education and experience) and a year-end bonus of 8.3%. Calculate your net salary here;
• Holiday hours: 190,4 per year for fulltime and a possibility to save additional hours;
• Pension accrual with BeFrank, a modern, comprehensible and fairly priced pension;
• For >7 km each way, 100% reimbursement for public transport travel costs and, for private transport, €0.18 per km up to a maximum of 40 km each way;
• Do you prefer walking or cycling? Take advantage of our good bike scheme. Moreover, you will receive a reimbursement of €0.18 per km.

Watch this video with more information about joining Amsterdam UMC Research BV.

The department of Functional Genomics is part of the Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research in Amsterdam, and the department of Human Genetics at Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc. Our PhD candidates participate in the Graduate School Neurosciences Amsterdam Rotterdam.

Amsterdam UMC Research BV supports non-profit scientific research. In doing so, we provide researchers with everything they need to excel. Our principal investigators (PIs) and project leaders offer support in the field of project management, finance and human resources. In medical scientific research projects, legal support is also provided.