Vacancies

PhD position, appointment for 4 years

Description of the position

Synapses are the fundamental processing elements that form the basis for the unsurpassed computational power of our brain with approximately 2000 different types of proteins present. We will apply a systems biology approach to identify protein networks underlying synapse function and translate this into a realistic dynamic model for synaptic signalling.

Data is and will be generated in the "wet" project at the CNCR using Immunoprecipitation (IP) in conjunction with state of the art mass spectrometry. From this data and prior knowlegde the network of interactions between synaptic proteins (interactome) has to be established. Computational tools will be used from different areas of research like network theory, statistics and computer science. Subsequently, the protein complexes have to be identified within the network. Once this task is performed the work will progress in the direction of changing protein interaction networks due different genetic make-ups or to changing environmental conditions. Model predictions will be experimentally tested in the adjoined "wet" project and crucial experiments can be suggested for this project.

This PhD-project is part of a duo-project between the CNCR at the Free University and the BDA group at the University of Amsterdam. There is an intensive collaboration between the "wet" and "dry" research lines and this project is supported by and embedded in the Netherlands Institute for Systems Biology, NISB.

Requirements

  • MSc in Mathematics, Statistics, Bioinformatics, (Bio) Physics, Chemometrics, Biostatistics or Computer Science.
  • Strong affinity for neuroscience.
  • Ambition to perform pioneering research in a developing field of science.
  • Good communicative skills, a multidisciplinary mindset and flexible personality.

For more detailed information regarding these positions you are invited to contact: Dr. Huub Hoefsloot +31 20-5255867, e-mail