Postdoctoral researcher in evolutionary genomics

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in evolutionary genomics, based in the Ma lab: Evolutionary Genomics of Sex within the Biology Department. The VUB is a leading Dutch-speaking university in Brussels, renowned for its commitment to freedom, equality, and solidarity, and is a member of the EUTOPIA alliance of European universities. The university offers a diverse, open, and supportive environment, with a strong emphasis on groundbreaking research and education. This postdoctoral position focuses on the evolutionary genomics of sex chromosomes and sex-specific recombination in anurans (frogs). The research aims to understand how sex chromosomes and sex determination systems evolve, why they are highly labile in some lineages but stable in others, and how recombination shapes these dynamics across the tree of life. The project will involve assembling and analysing large, repeat-rich frog genomes, performing comparative genomics across lineages with different sex-determining systems (XY, ZW, homomorphic vs differentiated sex chromosomes), investigating the drivers of sex chromosome turnover, transposable elements and repeats landscape and evolution, and studying the evolution of sex-specific recombination rates and landscapes. The work will combine long-read genome assembly, comparative and population genomics, and the analysis of recombination patterns and structural variation. Depending on the candidate’s interests and expertise, there are opportunities to integrate cytogenetics and/or evo-devo approaches. The position is based at the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene). The successful candidate will join a vibrant research group and contribute to ongoing projects, co-supervise MSc/BSc students, and optionally participate in teaching. The role includes field sampling and basic molecular lab work, linking genomic patterns to evolutionary mechanisms. Applicants must hold a PhD in evolutionary biology, genomics, bioinformatics, or a closely related field, with solid expertise in evolutionary/population genomics and molecular evolution. Experience with high-throughput sequencing data analysis, genome assembly, and comparative genomics (especially large or repeat-rich genomes) is required. Strong programming and data analysis skills (Python and/or R, Unix) and familiarity with reproducible workflows are essential. Prior fieldwork experience is preferred, and a valid EU driving licence (or equivalent) is required. Candidates must have stayed abroad for at least 12 months of the 3 years preceding the start date, without working or studying in Belgium during that period (short-term stays allowed). Non-EEA nationals must meet permit and residence requirements for VUB. The offer includes a full-time postdoctoral scholarship for 12 months, extendable up to 36 months based on positive evaluation. The grant is linked to government scales, and additional benefits include telework allowance, internet fee, hospitalisation insurance, public transport reimbursement, meal discounts, sports facilities, nursery discounts, and access to learning platforms. The university values work-life balance, diversity, and continuous learning. To apply, submit your CV, motivation letter, diploma (not required for VUB alumni), and contact information for three references via jobs.vub.be by the deadline of 10 March 2026. The application process includes an initial selection based on your application file, followed by a job interview. For questions about the job content, contact Prof. Wen-Juan Ma at [email protected]. For more information about the university and the EUTOPIA alliance, visit the provided links.