The team researches a variety of fundamental questions using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as invertebrate model organism. This project is situated in a collaborative environment of three teams who share interests in unveiling fundamental principles of neurobiology. Here, the specific focus is on the neurohormonal changes that accompany the experience of starvation stress during development; several other lab members work on related topics (see also: https://bio.kuleuven.be/df/lt/ (supervisor), and https://bio.kuleuven.be/df/ib and https://www2.mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk/groups/wschafer/ (co-supervisors) ).
Website unit
Project
Neuropeptides are small proteins that carry out communication between neurons and are critical for the function of all animal brains. Indeed, drugs such as Ozempic and fentanyl act through human neuropeptide pathways. The diversity and ubiquity of neuropeptides means that neuropeptide signaling is organized in pervasive "wireless" networks connecting neurons that are not wired together with synapses. These networks can be remodeled by food availability and other environmental conditions, but the mechanisms underlying this regulation are not well understood.
We are using the nematode C. elegans, whose nervous system has been completely mapped at the cellular level, to discover how neuropeptide networks are reorganized by feeding and stress. In particular, we are studying neuropeptide pathways in the dauer, a specialized larval stage similar to the infective stage of parasitic worms, which is induced by starvation, crowding and high temperature. We are applying a broad range of approaches, including optogenetics, microfluidics, high-throughput behavioral analysis, as well as classical and molecular genetics. This PhD project aims to combine these research tools to map changes in neuropeptide pathways and determine how specific peptides control dauer-specific changes in physiology and behavior. This work will be relevant both for gaining general insight into the regulation of these important brain signaling molecules, but also may help develop strategies for controlling parasitic nematodes.
Profile
A graduate degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical sciences, Bioinformatics, Bio-Engineering, Biophysics, or equivalent is a must. Experience with C. elegans and/or neurobiology and/or confocal imaging anc/or basic computational analyses are profile advantages.
Applicants must have a competitive profile to apply for a PhD fellowship with regional and/or international granting agencies (at least FWO Flanders). Therefore, the motivation letter must include a paragraph explaining that the candidate meets all eligibility criteria - including confirmation that the time span between their Master's degree (or equivalent) and 01 March 2027 will not exceed 24 months. See https://www.fwo.be/en/support-programmes/all-calls/phd/phd-fellowship-fundamental-research/ to find all eligibility criteria.
In addition, successful applicants:
- are autonomous, yet sociable colleagues
- are creative problem-solvers
- can clearly communicate their research (results) to other lab members and research partners
- have excellent research skills and a strong interest in neuro- and behavioral biology, genetics, and molecular biological methods
- are proficient in English
- are willing to supervise Bachelor and Master students
- have basic statistical analysis skills
- are generally curious and willing to learn
- have a sense of responsibility and are able to take initiative to improve research
- work results-oriented, i.e. they have the focus and abilities to work towards publishable units of scientific information
Offer
We offer a full-time position at the Division of Animal Physiology and Neurobiology in the Biology Department of KU Leuven (Belgium). The position is in the team of Prof. Temmerman, co-supervised by Profs Beets & Schafer, who collaborate on a daily basis. You will work in a stimulating research environment and contribute to the team spirit of our research groups consisting of several postdocs and PhD students.
PhD project with a four-year horizon; the initial 1-year contract includes an intended extension. For this, good evaluation upon competitive fellowship applications (excellent ranking or score, irrespective of the actual outcome) is a prerequisite.
The salary will be in accordance with the University salary scales for predoctoral researchers.
KU Leuven is the top ranked university in Belgium and is among the top ten universities in the EU. It is situated in the beautiful medieval city of Leuven, which is also home to a vibrant international community and thriving economy. For more information on the University of Leuven, visit www.kuleuven.be/english/.
Envisaged start to be agreed upon, asap as of 02.11.2026; within a reasonable bracket for admin and mobility.
Temmerman lab website
Information on (incl. eligibility criteria of) FWO PhD fellowships
Beets lab website
Schafer lab website
Interested?
Only applications that are submitted online via the KU Leuven platform will be considered. Interviews (live/online) will be planned Aug 31st and Sept 1st 2026. Should you require more information prior to application, please contact Prof. Temmerman, mail: [email protected].
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
