PhD Candidate: Restoring Brain Networks After Vascular Dysfunction
Explore how neurovascular deficits disrupt brain circuits and test novel interventions to restore function in Alzheimer’s and epilepsy.
Best for:Best for neuroscientists with a master’s in neuroscience or related fields, hands-on experience in mouse handling, electrophysiology, or behavioral assays, and a passion for translational research at the neurovascular interface.
Overview
This PhD position at the University of Amsterdam focuses on investigating how cerebrovascular dysfunction—specifically the loss of the LRP1 transporter—impacts brain-wide networks, including the thalamus, cortex, hippocampus, and cerebellum. The project aims to uncover mechanisms underlying cognitive decline, excitability, epilepsy, and Alzheimer’s pathology while testing therapeutic interventions like PDE1 inhibitors and deep brain stimulation. The successful candidate will conduct multidisciplinary experiments (patch-clamp, optogenetics, mouse behavior) and contribute to teaching and lab collaboration. The role is ideal for neuroscientists with a strong interest in aging biology and Alzheimer’s disease, seeking to bridge vascular and neural circuit research.
What you'll do
- Conduct multidisciplinary experiments (patch-clamp, optogenetics, stereotaxic surgery) to investigate how LRP1 loss disrupts brain-wide networks and behavior in mouse models.
- Test therapeutic interventions (PDE1 inhibitors, deep brain stimulation) to ameliorate vascular and circuit dysfunction linked to Alzheimer’s and epilepsy.
- Systematically document experimental procedures, analyze data, and present findings in lab meetings and international conferences.
- Supervise BSc/MSc students during their research internships and assist in undergraduate teaching.
- Participate in PhD training programs, including courses and (international) meetings, to develop academic and professional skills.
- Contribute to science communication and outreach activities within the lab.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in neuroscience or a related field (e.g., biology, physiology, cognitive science).
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; proficiency at a level suitable for academic research (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).
Instruction: English
- Hands-on experience with mouse handling and behavioral assays.
- Familiarity with electrophysiology techniques (e.g., patch-clamp).
- Experience with histological analyses or in vivo electrophysiology.
- Strong intrinsic motivation for fundamental research in aging biology and neurodegeneration.
- Art. 9 qualification or willingness to obtain it (for Dutch employment contracts).
- Fluent written and spoken English (proven by test scores if applicable).
- No nationality restrictions, but non-Dutch applicants may qualify for the 30% ruling tax exemption.
- Open to applicants with prior experience in neuroscience or related disciplines.
- No age restrictions, but alignment with Dutch labor laws for PhD positions applies.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15
Submit a single PDF file containing a detailed CV (with monthly education/work experience), a letter of motivation, and the contact details of two references. Applications should be sent via the University of Amsterdam’s recruitment portal.
- CV with monthly education/work experience
- Letter of motivation
- Names and email addresses of two references
Contact
Dr. Gil Vantomme· Assistant Professor
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