This PhD position is based at the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB) within the University of Luxembourg. The project focuses on understanding the mechanisms controlling ribosome speed in neurons, particularly in the context of Parkinson's disease (PD). Researchers will investigate how variations in protein synthesis affect protein folding and how this relates to the accumulation of misfolded proteins characteristic of neurodegenerative diseases. The study will integrate various data types, including interactomics, translatomics, and proteomics, to identify genetic mutations in translation regulators that might impact protein synthesis rates in Parkinson's disease. The ultimate goal is to establish translation dysregulation as a significant factor in PD pathogenesis and explore new therapeutic strategies. The research involves experimental work with dopaminergic neurons derived from PD models and healthy individuals. This includes cell culture, transcriptomics, translatomics, proteomics, and interactomics experiments. The candidate will also be responsible for validating findings, testing potential translation modifiers, and assisting with data analysis. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to fundamental research in neurodegeneration and translational science aimed at developing novel drug targets.
This PhD position is part of a funded research project. Upon successful completion, graduates will be well-equipped for careers in academic research or the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, particularly in fields related to neurodegenerative diseases.
Practical experience in cell culture (especially stem cells), transcriptomics, translatomics, proteomics, interactomics, ribosome biology, bioinformatics/computational biology, and protein aggregation assays are considered a strong asset.
The position includes a gross annual salary, covering living expenses and research costs.
Applicants need a Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field, and should be early-stage researchers without a PhD. Practical experience in cell culture, omics techniques, bioinformatics, and protein aggregation assays are considered strong assets. A B2 level of English proficiency is required, with accepted certificates listed on the Doctoral Candidates Admissions page.
This is a funded PhD position, meaning it includes a gross annual salary covering living expenses and research costs. Therefore, tuition fees are not applicable.
The contract duration for this PhD position is 36 months.
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the University of Luxembourg's online HR system; email applications will not be considered. You will need to prepare your CV, a cover letter, transcripts, a list of publications if applicable, and contact details for two referees.
The position includes a gross annual salary of EUR 41,976, which covers living expenses and research costs.
The planned start date for this position is the 1st of March 2026.