Group Leader / Professor in Cancer Biology

About the role

The VIB Center for Cancer Biology (CCB) and the Department of Oncology at KU Leuven are recruiting a professor and group leader in Cancer Biology, based in Leuven. The research focuses on the cross-talk between cancer cells and their tumor microenvironment, with a strong translational potential. The position is linked to an associate professorship at the KU Leuven Department of Oncology, and the candidate must be selected by both CCB and the department.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a ground-breaking scientific program on the cross-talk between tumors and components of the tumor microenvironment, such as vasculature, immune and/or nervous systems, including paracrine and/or juxtacrine signaling
• Use innovative reductionist models (e.g. 3D tumoroids) and/or in vivo models (mouse genetics, lineage tracing, PDXs) and establish clinical relevance with human clinical samples
• A focus on a specific cancer indication (e.g. brain tumors, pancreatic cancer) or biological process (e.g. metastasis, circulating tumor cells) is a plus
• Build bridges between existing research groups at VIB and KU Leuven, other academic centers and industry
• Contribute to education and training of clinicians and cancer researchers

Required profile

• Established scientific expert and experienced group leader in biomedical sciences or a closely related field
• Proven research record with publications in international leading journals and conferences
• International research experience and an interdisciplinary, collaborative mindset
• Organizational skills, leadership capacity and interest in outreach
• Proficiency in English; Dutch is not required at the start of employment, as language training is provided, and a CEFR B2 certificate in Dutch is expected within five years

What we offer

• An internationally attractive employment package independent of research funding and grants, with excellent healthcare benefits
• Mentoring program and Group Leader coaching track
• Access to core facilities at CCB, VIB and KU Leuven
• Broad administrative support in finance, HR, logistics, operations and regulatory affairs
• Assistance with relocation, visa application, housing and schooling

Applications close on 15 November 2026 and include a motivation letter, a complete CV with publication list, a bio sketch, a short view on education at KU Leuven and three references.