PhD in Computational Modelling of Root-Mycorhizza interfaces

About the FSTM

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) at the University of Luxembourg contributes multidisciplinary expertise in the fields of Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences and Medicine.
Through its dual mission of teaching and research, the FSTM seeks to generate and disseminate knowledge and train new generations of responsible citizens in order to better understand, explain and advance society and environment we live in.

Your role

The PhD student will develop and apply computational multiscale models to investigate brain energy metabolism and its relation to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer disease. To characterize the impact of mitochondrial morphology and regulation on the energetic state of brain cells, an agent-based physiological 3D model of mitochondria based on the seminal work of Prof. Skupin (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-54159-1) will be extended and embedded into a continuous description of single-cell models for neurons and glial cells (https://journals.plos.org/ploscompbiol/article?id=10.1371/journal.pcbi.1011464).

The goal of this hybrid continuum/agent-based model is to investigate through a quantitative mechanistic model how mitochondrial morphology affects energetic states and can integrate mechanistically experimental findings of neurodegenerative disease research.

Your profile

• Master's in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, biophysics, bioengineering or related discipline
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research, critical thinking and self-driven attitude
• Fascination with multiscale organisation of biological systems and the complexity of the brain
• Experience in spatiotemporal dynamics and corresponding simulations (including high-performance computing) are an asset

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month (extendable up to 48 months if required)
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Campus Belval
• Employee and student status
• Job Reference: UOL06675

The yearly gross salary for every PhD at the UL is EUR 40952 (full time).