Alzheimer et surdité - élucider leurs connexions

Organisation/Company Université de Liège, GIGA Research Field Biological sciences » Biology Chemistry » Biochemistry Psychological sciences » Psychology Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) Leading Researcher (R4) First Stage Researcher (R1) Established Researcher (R3) Final date to receive applications 20 Aug 2026 - 22:00 (UTC) Country Belgium Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 1 Oct 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

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.

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 ( ).

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.