Early Stage Researcher / PhD student "Mode of action of novel dengue virus inhibitors" in Mechelen (BE) : Mechelen

EU Marie Curie Initial Training Network EUVIRNA: job description

EUVIRNA is a European Marie Curie Initial Training Network on (+)RNA Virus Replication and Antiviral Drug Development.

EUVIRNA seeks an Early Stage Researcher for the project ‘Mode of action of novel dengue virus inhibitors’. The successful candidate is planned to obtain a PhD with this project.

Full description of the project, eligibility criteria and application procedure can be found at http://www.euvirna.eu.

Please note:
ONLY COMPLETE APPLICATIONS ACCORDING TO THE APPLICATIONS PROCEDUREARE CONSIDERED.

Project Description

Tibotec-Virco is currently screening for small molecule inhibitors of Dengue virus replication. Experiments will reveal whether a particular compound interacts with the initial phase of infection (binding, fusion, entry), intracellular replication, virus maturation or release. Genotyping and phenotyping of drug-resistant variants allows identification of viral protein targets. The interaction between inhibitor and target will be studied by expressing wt and mutant target proteins and determining the crystal structure of the inhibitor/target complex. This will allow rational design of second generation analogues with increased inhibitory effect.

Requirements

• The candidate should possess a MSc degree in virology, cell biology, immunology or related discipline. Good knowledge and experience of assay development and molecular biology is an advantage. Prior experience with transcriptome/proteome analyses is an asset. The ideal candidate would have a background in infectious diseases, preferably related to Dengue virus or other related RNA viruses.
• Proactive participation and contribution to the scientific community will be expected through presentations and critical thinking at internal scientific forums, requiring excellent English presentation and writing skills. The successful candidate will actively contribute to publications, presentations at external meetings and patent applications. In addition, strong communication skills and the capability to work will in a team are important.
• Candidates must fulfil the eligibility criteria for Marie Curie Initial Training Networks (FP7).
• Candidates should submit the complete application package.
• Suitable candidates will be invited for an interview by the supervisor of the project.