Alzheimer et surdité - élucider leurs connexions

Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is the most common sensory disorder among the elderly, a:ecting a third of individuals over 65. Its prevalence is expected to rise significantly in the coming decades due to global population aging, posing increasing public health and social challenges. Beyond its effects on communication difficulties that contribute to a reduced quality of life, hearing impairment is increasingly recognized to have broader neurobiological implications. A link between ARHL and Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), has been reported for a long time, and recent large-scale human studies suggest hearing loss may be an early diagnostic marker for AD and a modifiable risk factor. ARHL may exacerbate cognitive decline through mechanisms such as social isolation or changes in brain structure; it is also possible that ARHL and AD co-occur because of shared age-related pathophysiological mechanisms.

GIGA is an interdisciplinary research center in biomedical sciences whose mission is advanced medical innovation. The institute encompasses more than 600 members with expertise in medical genomics, in silico medicine, neurosciences, cancer, infection and immunity, and cardiovascular sciences. GIGA is the only Belgian research center directly integrated within a university hospital. It is a significant player in translational research,where links between researchers and doctors are at the heart of the research activity.

To meet the increasing demands of multidisciplinary research, the GIGA offers Core facilities, including advanced imaging, flow cytometry, proteomics/metabolomics, deep sequencing, and genome engineering.

We are looking for one highly motivated PhD candidate with a master's thesis in cell biology, molecular biology, neurosciences or genetics to join our research group in the Development Neurobiology Unit at the GIGA-Neurosciences, Liège, Belgium (https://www.gigaldn.uliege.be/cms/c_4226711/en/gigaldn).

Applicants with experience or a strong interest in molecular biology, cell biology, and/or animal models are encouraged to apply. Excellent written and spoken English communication skills are essential. Preference will be given to candidates with an outstanding academic record throughout their university studies. A certification authorizing the performance of animal experiments is considered an asset.