PhD Position in Sensory Signaling and Bladder Disorders at the Laboratory of Ion Channel Research

The Laboratory of Ion Channel Research (https://voetslab.sites.vib.be/en ), led by Prof. Thomas Voets at the VIB–KU Leuven Center for Brain & Disease Research, is a dynamic hub investigating the critical roles of ion channels—particularly the TRP superfamily—in physiological and pathological processes.

Our interdisciplinary approach spans from foundational electrophysiology to translational models, including animal studies and analyses of human tissue samples. This full-stack methodology enables us to directly link molecular channel function with disease phenotypes.

The PhD student will work under the supervision of Prof. Voets and in close collaboration with Prof. Wouter Everaerts from UZ Leuven’s urology department. The research team has a strong track record in exploring urology‑relevant ion channel mechanisms, with translational relevance for conditions such as chronic pain, bladder dysfunction, and other urinary tract disorders.

The urinary bladder plays a vital role in storing and releasing urine, governed by complex neural circuits. As the bladder fills, sensory signals originating from its wall inform the central nervous system about bladder fullness. Disruption of these signaling pathways can impair coordination between the bladder and urinary sphincter, leading to symptoms such as urgency, frequent urination, or incontinence. Functional urinary tract disorders affect approximately 1 in 5 adults, significantly impacting quality of life, and remain challenging to treat.

Our research group has pioneered innovative methods to study voiding behavior in mice and developed live imaging techniques to visualize sensory signaling in the bladder wall and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. In addition, we explore these pathways in human bladder tissue samples.

The LICR lab is looking to recruit 1 highly-motivated PhD student to join our team investigating sensory signaling between the bladder wall and the central nervous system and its role in lower urinary tract disorders (LUTd). The project involves advanced techniques such as ex vivo calcium imaging and transcriptomics of mouse and human urothelium and DRG neurons, and X-ray videocystometry in awake mice. The candidate will design and conduct experiments exploring the signalling interactions between urothelial cells and sensory nerves innervating the bladder, and their impact on bladder function under physiological and pathological conditions. Work will include data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation, as well as collaboration with clinicians for human tissue studies.

• The candidate holds a Master degree in biomedical sciences, medicine, bioengineering, (molecular) biology, or related fields, with the equivalent of at least distinction (15/20).
• You are eager to work hands-on with innovative experimental setups and animal models
• You can take initiative, work well in a team, and have perseverance, a critical mindset, and a collaborative spirit.
• You are proficient in the use of the English language for both oral and written communication. 

• A full-time PhD position for one year; after a positive evaluation, the contract can be extended to three additional years (four years in total)
• A multidisciplinary, highly stimulating and supporting international research environment at VIB/KULeuven
• Access to state-of-the-art tools and infrastructure.
• Various training opportunities are organized at VIB and doctoral school KU Leuven to broaden your expertise and skills (training.vib.be). 

Applications should be submitted through the VIB portal by August 1st 2025.

Make sure that your application includes: 

• A detailed CV 
• A concise cover letter describing your motivation and career goals.
• The names and contact details of 2 referees.