Postdoctoral Researcher in Cancer Cell Plasticity and Functional Genomics

About the role

The Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Gene Regulation, newly established in 2025 at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology, is looking for a postdoctoral researcher to study the molecular mechanisms and genetic dependencies behind cancer cell plasticity, using pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as the main model. The candidate will take a leading role in shaping an ambitious research project, developing original hypotheses and experimental strategies rather than following a narrowly prescribed project.

Required profile

• PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, biomedical sciences or a related field; candidates finishing their PhD are welcome to apply.
• At least one first-author research publication or preprint.
• Strong experimental experience in functional genomics, cancer biology, chromatin biology/gene regulation, in vivo cancer research, or molecular and cellular engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to design, run and critically interpret experiments independently.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Willingness to apply for competitive personal fellowships, with support from the principal investigator.

Required skills

• CRISPR-based genetic perturbation and screening, organoid and in vivo models, molecular cloning, viral vector design and production.
• Preferred: pooled CRISPR screening, lentiviral or AAV delivery, single-cell or spatial transcriptomics, R or Python for sequencing data analysis, student mentoring.

What we offer

• A fully funded three-year postdoctoral position, initially a one-year contract, with funding independent of personal fellowship applications.
• Scientific freedom to lead a research project, access to functional genomics, sequencing, single-cell and spatial technologies, imaging, flow cytometry, histology and animal facilities.
• Mentorship and support for fellowship applications (EMBO, HFSP, MSCA, FWF).
• Opportunities to present at international conferences, attend training and build collaborations.
• Flexible start date as soon as possible.

Applications are submitted through the VIB online application platform as a single PDF in English: a one-page motivation letter and a one-page research summary.