Researcher PHD Student

PhD Student Position: Drug Development for Parkinson's Disease

The Brodski Lab: Our lab investigates the molecular mechanisms controlling the development, survival, and degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, aiming to leverage our findings to develop novel therapies for dopamine-related disorders. In recent years, we have narrowed our focus to developing disease-modifying treatments for Parkinson's disease, a devastating condition affecting millions worldwide with currently no cure.

Funding & Collaboration: Our research is generously supported by the Israel Science Foundation, the US-Israel Binational Science Foundation (in collaboration with the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai), and the prestigious Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

University Environment: Our university provides a world-class research environment with state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary training programs. We foster a vibrant international community where the working language is English.

Lab Homepage: https://in.bgu.ac.il/en/fohs/Claude_Brodski

Key Publication: Vitic Z., et al. (2021). BMP5/7 protect dopaminergic neurons against α-synuclein induced neurotoxicity in a preclinical model of Parkinson’s disease. Brain, 144(2):e15. (Impact Factor: 10.6).

Project Description: This project focuses on developing and evaluating drug candidates for Parkinson's disease. You will:

• Optimize the design of proteins delivered by a gene therapy approach using adenoviral vectors.
• Employ computer-aided drug design to develop small molecule therapeutics.
• Evaluate new drug candidates in iPSC-derived dopaminergic neurons from Parkinson's disease patients and preclinical models.
• Utilize a range of molecular and cell biological techniques (qPCR, Western blotting, RNAseq, cell culture).

Candidate Profile:

• Master's degree in life sciences (e.g. biochemistry, molecular medicine, biology), pharmacology, chemistry, or an M.D.
• Background in molecular biology techniques, microscopy, and/or cell culture.
• Experience in protein design and/or computer-aided drug design is a significant advantage.

We Offer:

• A stimulating and supportive research environment.
• Access to state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure.
• Interdisciplinary scientific development opportunities.
• An international and collaborative team atmosphere.
• Training in a wide range of scientific fields.
• A project funded by the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
• Opportunities to present your research at international conferences and workshops.
• Extensive support for your career development beyond your Ph.D.

Application Deadline:

We encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible. We aim to fill this position by Spring 2025.

To Apply:

Please send your CV, Full undergraduate and master’s academic transcript directly to Prof. Claude Brodski: [email protected].