Postdoc Position in Space Biology, the Belgian Nuclear Research Center, Belgium

We have an opening for a scientist (postdoctoral level) to join the Radiobiology Unit at the Belgian Nuclear Research Center (SCK-CEN, www.sckcen.be). SCK-CEN is one of the largest non-academic research centres in Belgium. It has a a federal statute and is also a foundation of public utility.

SCK-CEN OVERVIEW:
Throughout its more than 50 years of experience SCK-CEN has earned a reputation as a centre of excellence for research in the field of peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology. The fields of activity go - literally - from the deep underground to outer space. The SCK-CEN research activities are concentrated on the following themes: nuclear material sciences, advanced nuclear systems, environment, health and safety, education and training, societal topics. Within the Institute for Health, Environment and Safety, the Radiobiology Unit is a highly collaborative team of radiobiologists, cell and molecular biologists and bioinformatics specialists focusing on the study of the effects of ionising radiation on humans for radiotherapeutical, biodosimetrical (nucelar mass casualty accidents), embryology and space biology and medicine purposes.

OVERALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES :
Your role will be to conceive, plan and implement advanced space biology experiments deisgned to understand how space conditions (radiation and microgravity) act on human health. The assays and approaches you will use will involve large scale whole-genome screening using state-of-the-art high-throughput and high content analysis technologies. Your effort and contribution will be recognized as a critical part of a large and comprehensive collaborative study on space research interactions involving numerous investigators and partners across Europe, academia and industry.

Your duties will be to lead the development, implementation, validation of protocols and interpretation of data allowing efficient cellular and molecular analysis of space simulated stress conditions of various human cell types as well as on astronauts or volunteers based in space simulated platforms (Concordia in Antarctica, Mars 500 in Moscou and bed rest in Toulouse and Cologne).

This particular position is based in SCK-CEN laboratories situated in Mol at 75 km North of Brussels, 40 km East of Antwerp and 90 km West of Liège. The position is financially supported by the European Space Agency (Belspo/Prodex programme).

EDUCATION, SKILLS AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
PhD in Sciences (orientation biochemistry, bioengineering, biotechnology or biology) is needed.

Required

• Outstanding cellular and molecular experience in biology.
• Ability to design, plan and execute complex biological studies
• Creative and innovation mindset with a deadline driven approach.
• Ability to hit critical time-dependent milestones
• Outstanding writing and communication skills
• Strong desire to publish work in leading journals
• Demonstrated team player with a strong desire to help others

Desired

• Previous experience in hematology/immunology
• Previous experience in molecular biology
• Proficiency with statistical analysis methods/software employed in research environments
• Basic understanding of eukaryotic cell biology, high throughput or high content analysis systems

AVAILABILITY:
From September 2009 (for a period of 20 months with a possibility of prolongation).

APPLICATION:
Please submit a CV/resume demonstrating experience and accomplishments with 2 references before August 5, 2009 to: Dr. Sarah Baatout / Head of Radiobiology Unit at: sarah.baatout[ at ]sckcen.be

Please visit our website at www.sckcen.be to learn more about SCK-CEN.