Development of fluorescent probes to determine live cell asymmetric membrane properties in path[...]

Development of fluorescent probes to determine live cell asymmetric membrane properties in pathogenic bacteria

The Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) is internationally recognized for research and teaching quality in many different fields of expertise.

One of the most pressing problems in health care is the concerning rise of antimicrobial resistances in pathogenic bacteria. Globally, 4.95 million deaths have been associated with antimicrobial resistance in 2019 while the WHO predicts 10 million deaths for 2050. New antibiotic therapy and targets are hence urgently needed to fight this global health problem.

In this project, the postdoctoral researcher will develop genetically encoded fluorescent peptides that simultaneously quantify inner and outer monolayer surface charge in live bacteria. These probes will be calibrated on membrane models such as Giant unilamellar vesicles of known surface charge and lipid composition, and further validated in live bacteria. In the long term, these probes should allow us to understand antimicrobial resistance towards last resort cationic peptides and its dynamic development.

This postdoctoral position is funded for 3 years. The candidate will have experience in molecular biology and microbiology. Experience in microscopy, fluorescence techniques, membrane biophysics or analytical chemistry is a bonus. The candidate will be trained in advanced imaging techniques such as fluorescent lifetime imaging, anisotropy imaging, two-photon imaging, spectral imaging and related image analysis and develop a deep understanding in peptide/membrane interactions and related resistance mechanisms.

The postdoc will work in a vibrant, multidisciplinary team that has experience in molecular and clinical approaches. She/He will join the team at the Woluwé-Saint-Lambert campus of UCLouvain University in Brussels, Belgium.

If you are interested in this project, please send a C.V. and a motivation letter to joseph.lorent@yahoo.com. Please indicate in the motivation letter how well your qualifications match the position.

Research Field: Biological sciences » Biological engineering

Education Level: PhD or equivalent

Skills/Qualifications:

1. Molecular Biology
2. Microbiology
3. Experience in microscopy and/or fluorescence spectroscopy
4. Membrane Biophysics

Specific Requirements:

Please send a C.V. and a motivation letter to joseph.lorent@yahoo.com. Please indicate in the motivation letter how well your qualifications match the position.

Job details

Title: Development of fluorescent probes to determine live cell asymmetric membrane properties in pathogenic bacteria

Published: 2025-01-24

Deadline: 2025-05-01 23:59 (Europe/Brussels)