Extracellular matrix alterations after haemorrhagic stroke and their impact on cognitive decline

Position

Position: 3-year PhD studentship Expected start

date: November/December 2026

Host laboratory: Lille Neuroscience & Cognition (a collaborative project between the Lille Neuroendocrinology and TREAT teams)

Supervisors: Virginie Mattot and Vincent Berezowski

Project description

Intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) is the most devastating form of stroke and is associated with high mortality and long-term disability. Approximately one-third of survivors go on to develop cognitive impairment or dementia, highlighting the urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. At present, no effective treatment is available to promote haematoma clearance or prevent the neurological consequences of ICH. This project will investigate the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in ICH pathophysiology, focusing in particular on its contribution to haematoma clearance, tissue repair, brain metabolism and cognitive decline. Based on our unpublished preliminary data, we hypothesise that ECM alterations occur not only at the site of haemorrhage but also in distant brain regions involved in cognitive processes.

To address this question, the project will combine preclinical, translational and technological approaches and pursue three main objectives:

1. Develop a mouse model of ICH based on our validated rat model.
2. Characterise ECM alterations in this model and assess their clinical relevance using human brain samples.
3. Experimentally modulate ECM remodelling to determine its impact on haematoma clearance and functional recovery.

Main responsibilities

• Conduct experimental and/or theoretical research activities related to the project.
• Design, implement and optimise the scientific methods required for the project.
• Collect, process and analyse data.
• Participate in team meetings and seminars, and present research findings at national and international conferences.
• Disseminate research findings through scientific publications and the preparation of the PhD thesis.

Candidate profile

Education and experience

Master’s degree (or equivalent), preferably in neurovascular research or a related field.

Relevant authorisation to design animal procedures and experience in microsurgery would be an advantage.

Required skills

• Strong background in neuroscience, with some knowledge of vascular biology.
• Previous experience in animal research is essential, particularly handling rodents.
• A strong interest in microsurgery is essential.
• Fluency in scientific English, including reading, writing and oral communication.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, ImageJ and Prism.

Personal attributes

• Well organised, rigorous and methodical.
• Responsive and scientifically curious.
• A strong team player with good interpersonal skills, able to work with the research team, project group and technical platforms.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.