December 2024
Junior Postdoc Position
The Developmental Neurobiology group located in Brussels, Belgium is seeking for a junior postdoc with an “international mobility” status (i.e. who did not reside or work in Belgium for more than 24 months in the last three years).
The main purpose of our research is to understand the mechanisms underlying the development and evolution of the nervous system and link them to brain tumour genesis and aggressiveness as well as neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders.
We study the role of cell polarity and cytoskeleton in these processes.
The laboratory is integrated in the Institute of Neuroscience (IoNS) at the medical school campus of the University of Louvain (UCLouvain). The IoNS is an interdisciplinary institute where neuroscientists from different backgrounds combine different approaches, ranging from cells to patients, to tackle frontiers questions in neurosciences. UCLouvain is a multicultural centre with employees from more than 120 nationalities.
The position is funded on a yearly basis for up to 3 years. We use different models including genetically engineered mice, primary cultures of cancer stem cells, and human-derived embryonic stem cells. Leading-edge technologies are applied ranging from live imaging and slice culture to single-cell omics analyses. By collaborating with clinicians, we aim to enhance the translational value of our research.
Requirements: PhD in Life Sciences or Neuroscience. Expertise in Cell & Molecular Biology as well as Histology is required. Candidates with expertise in data mining and analysis will be preferred.
For applications, please email to fadel.tissir@uclouvain.be
Relevant publications from the lab:
- Ruiz-Reig et al., PNAS (2022).
- Hakanen et al., Progress in Neurobiology (2021).
- Lau et al., Elife (2021).
- Boucherie et al., Molecular Psychiatry (2018).
- Damiani et al., Nature Communications (2016).
- Wang et al., Nature Communications (2016).
- Chai et al., Nature Neuroscience (2014).
- Boutin et al., PNAS (2014).
- Qu et al., PNAS (2014).
- Tissir et al., Nature Neuroscience (2012).
- Tissir et al., Nature Neuroscience (2010).
- Zhou et al., Science (2008).
- Tissir et al., Nature Neuroscience (2005).
November 2024
PhD positions at UCLouvain (Brussels campus)
Supervisor: Dr. David Gueorguiev
2 PhD positions are available on the ERC project: Computational Modelling of Tangible Objects on Multisensory Interfaces - TANGO -
The project:
Current interactive systems provide realistic audio-visual feedback while haptic feedback is limited even though haptic interactions with devices are essential and touch plays a large role to convey immersive sensations. Thus, usable high-fidelity haptic rendering has the potential to improve interactions with interactive interfaces and future metaverses. Knowledge has started emerging on haptic rendering and multisensory perception of tangible objects. Still, combining multiple techniques to stimulate the full bandwidth of tactile sensitivity remains a hard challenge and little is known about the perceptual integration of tactile cues such as friction, temperature, or vibrations. Specifically, TANGO aims to
1/ characterize typical gestures and contact mechanics during interaction with real objects.
2/ understand how gestures and the dimension of haptic feedback influence perception of simulated tactile objects
3/ create a computational model of multisensory integration that outputs perceived realism during interaction with objects. Studies will also consider two main population factors: age and sensory impairment.
The PhDs within the project will focus on one of these three goals and aim at understanding and optimizing haptic rendering in multisensory interactions.
The Institute:
The PhD lasts 4 years and will take place at the Institute of Neuroscience of UCLouvain in the Cognition and System department (https://uclouvain.be/fr/instituts-recherche/ions/research-areas.html), a vibrant research center in Brussels that spans all the areas of neuroscience.
The profile:
We are looking for outstanding candidates with a Master degree in cognitive science, computer science, engineering, or in a relevant field. The candidates should have practical experience in at least one programming language (ex: Matlab, Python, C, R…). Interest in VR and experience with experiments that involve participants is appreciated as well as “Make It Happen” spirit and good communication skills. Interested applicants should demonstrate a C1 level command of English.
Start date of the PhD is possible from 01/02/2025 but flexible upon agreement with the successful candidates (no later than 01/10/2025).
To apply, send an email with your CV and a motivation letter (max 2 pages) that describes your interest in one of the suggested topics.
The email is to be sent to david.gueorguiev@uclouvain.be before 31/12/2024.