PhD in Molecular Epidemiology of Alzheimer’s Disease

Despite extensive research, the molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative disorders remain incompletely understood. While traditional genetics research has focused on the coding genome, which makes up less than 2% of DNA, high-throughput RNA studies have revealed that most of the genome are actively transcribed into non-coding RNAs that play key roles in gene regulation. MicroRNAs, small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally, have emerged as critical regulators in neurodegeneration and neurodevelopmental disorders. Altered plasma circulating microRNA profiles may serve as biomarkers or drivers of disease, providing insight into underlying mechanisms and potential preventive strategies.

We are seeking a motivated PhD student to investigate the role of microRNAs in ageing, neurodegeneration, and neuropsychiatric disorders using molecular epidemiology approaches. The project uses data from the Rotterdam Study, a population-based cohort of nearly 18,000 participants followed for 35 years, with longitudinal clinical, lifestyle, imaging, and multi-omics data. Replication studies will be conducted in other cohorts studies through our international collaborations. The PhD student will identify circulating microRNAs and their quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) associated with neurodegeneration diseases, support in-vitro functional validation studies conducted by other students, and integrate molecular and epidemiological data.

You will present results at international conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and contribute to your PhD thesis. The position offers the opportunity to also obtain an MSc in Molecular Epidemiology at NIHES, Erasmus MC.

You will join the Department of Epidemiology at Erasmus MC, within the Molecular and Systems Epidemiology group, a multidisciplinary team of around 10 international researchers conducting cutting-edge work on the interaction between genetic and lifestyle factors in complex diseases.

The team is open-minded, supportive, and collaborative, working closely with clinical and basic science departments to advance epidemiological research on brain disorders. You will have ample room for initiative and creativity, collaborating on individual and joint projects, exploring new methods, and presenting results at conferences.

Erasmus MC offers an ambitious and stimulating environment with a global reputation in research, dedicated to improving population health and healthcare. Your development as a researcher is valued through formal training, courses, seminars, and informal supervision, providing excellent opportunities to contribute to high-impact science in an international and inspiring setting.

Make this job your next career move! Apply now using the application button. It all starts with taking action.

Do you have questions about the role? Feel free to reach out to Mohsen Ghanbari, PI of the Molecular and Systems Epidemiology group, via +31 (0)10 704 42 28 or send an email to m.ghanbari@erasmusmc.nl.