PhD Position in Structural Biology of Kinases Using Cryo-EM

About the role

The VIB Center for Structural Biology (VIB-CSB) in Brussels, together with Vrije Universiteit Brussel, is recruiting a PhD candidate for the Efremov Lab as part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network ANA-KIN. The project investigates how protein kinases are regulated, combining cryo-electron microscopy, protein biochemistry and molecular biology. The candidate works at the Brussels Electron Microscopy Center (BECM), which offers single-particle cryo-EM and cryo-electron tomography.

Key responsibilities

• Characterize kinase complexes structurally using cryo-EM
• Express, purify and biochemically characterize proteins
• Investigate kinase conformational landscapes and regulatory mechanisms
• Integrate structural and functional data to identify novel regulatory interfaces
• Collaborate with academic and industrial partners across Europe

Required profile

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biophysics, Biotechnology or a related field
• Strong academic record
• Applicants of any nationality are welcome; under MSCA rules, no more than 12 months of residence or main activity in Belgium in the 36 months before recruitment
• Scientifically curious, independent researcher with excellent English communication skills

Required skills

• Practical experience in cryo-EM, protein biochemistry and purification, and/or kinase biology
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Prior research experience in structural biology, cryo-EM data collection or image processing, protein expression and purification, or kinase signaling is particularly attractive

What we offer

• A fully funded PhD position within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie network
• Access to world-class cryo-EM infrastructure and close mentorship
• International secondments, workshops, conferences and transferable-skills training
• Competitive MSCA salary including mobility, family and travel allowances

Applicants submit a CV, a motivation statement and contact details for two referees by 15 September 2026; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the expected start date is 1 December 2026.