Our research team focuses on genetic and functional studies to identify and evaluate novel genes that are implicated in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). We have recently identified PHF6 as a novel tumor suppressor gene in T-ALL (Nature Genetics, 2010) and are currently evaluating its functional role. We also wish to evaluate the functional role of other, non-coding genes (miRNAs, lncRNAs) that might be implicated in T-ALL development. We therefore aim to develop a novel zebrafish model to study these T-ALL genes.

In recent years, zebrafish have emerged as a potent model organism to study hematological diseases and can be easily modified genetically and used in large screens with compounds that might be of benefit in leukemia treatment. In these model systems, a broad variety of morphological studies in combination with different molecular-biological techniques (RNAi, overexpression, reporter assays, miRNA/mRNA expression profiling…) will be applied. Moreover, multiple transgenic zebrafish lines can be crossed with each other to study collaborating genes in T-ALL development and can thus be utilized in chemical screens to identify novel potential molecular compounds for T-ALL therapy.

The candidate will be prepared to apply for grant proposals (IWT, FWO, or other), although there are possibilities to prolong the candidate’s contract in case of project disapproval. We offer a stimulating environment to perform top scientific research and support by postdoctoral scientists and PhD students involved in T-ALL research and zebrafish models. The candidate is motivated to work towards a final PhD thesis.

Profile
A: Knowledge/Experience
Background: master in biomedical sciences / biotechnology / biochemistry / pharmaceutical sciences / medicine (MD); bio-engineer (cell and gene technology) or equivalent; high grades are certainly recommended; experience with in vivo models is a plus but not required

B: Skills
Eager to learn and to work independently; strong communicative skills and a team-player (as the project will be interdisciplinary)

C: Attitudes
Strongly motivated to perform scientific research; problem solving and critical attitude; personal interest in model organisms.

Last application date: 2011-07-15 17:00
Department: GE02 - Department of Pediatrics and medical genetics
Degree: master in biomedical sciences / biotechnology / biochemistry / pharmaceutical sciences / medicine (MD); bio-engineer (cell and gene technology) or equivalent

Send your CV + motivation letter to Prof. Dr. Frank Speleman (Franki.Speleman@UGent.be) and Prof. Dr. Bruce Poppe (Bruce.Poppe@UGent.be)

For more information, please visit official website: www.ugent.be.

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Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the above information is current and correct. However, applicants should contact the appropriate administering body before making an application, as details do change frequently.