Postdoctoral researcher in evolutionary developmental neurobiology

We want to recruit a postdoctoral scientist for the collaborative EU WEAVE project "The influence of genome topology and gene regulation on evolution of neural cell type diversity in cephalopods" between the Seuntjens, Simakov and Sprecher labs.
Octopuses and other coleoid cephalopods have independently evolved an extraordinary cognitive toolkit—including adaptive learning, decision-making, forward thinking, and even planning—paired with astonishing behaviours like millisecond-scale camouflage. These complex actions are orchestrated by a nervous system that rivals that of mammals in both neuronal number and wiring complexity, yet follows a uniquely cephalopod blueprint.
The project aims to uncover whether and how changes in genome topology have influenced the emergence and diversification of brain cell types across three major cephalopod lineages. Our project will trace the links between genome structure and the regulatory elements that drive neural subtype differentiation. Through comparative analyses, we will reveal how cephalopods may have leveraged genome architecture to expand their neural complexity. Targeted expression studies will shed light on the role of key transcription factors in generating neural diversity—offering insights into whether the molecular strategies behind brain expansion are deeply conserved or strikingly novel.
For the current vacancy, the Seuntjens Lab is looking for a postdoctoral scientist that has a background in developmental neurobiology, and a strong interest in non-model species (evo-devo). Computational biology skills are an asset.
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Responsibilities

To perform wet bench and computational research in the framework of the project in an independent manner

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Offer

The position is for 1 year, and can be extended to 3 years. The candidate is expected to apply for competitive postdoctoral fellowships during this period. 

More information

Lab's website

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Eve Seuntjens, tel.: +32 16 37 31 35, mail: [email protected].

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