PhD project on nuclear metabolism in tumour hypoxia KU Leuven in Belgium

This PhD project, offered jointly by KU Leuven and UCLouvain, focuses on nuclear metabolism in tumour hypoxia, exploring the interface between nuclear metabolism, chromatin regulation, and single-cell epigenomics in cancer. The research will be conducted in collaboration between the Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics at KU Leuven and the Metabolic Research Group at the de Duve Institute, UCLouvain. Both institutions are located in Belgium, approximately 30 minutes apart, and provide access to a highly collaborative and internationally recognised biomedical research environment.

The project will employ molecular and cellular biology, metabolic approaches, and functional genomics to investigate how tumour hypoxia reshapes nuclear metabolic pathways and epigenetic regulation. Candidates will benefit from the complementary expertise, infrastructure, and scientific communities of both KU Leuven and UCLouvain. The research activities will be shared between both institutions, offering a unique opportunity to engage with diverse scientific teams and resources.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in biochemistry, molecular biology, biomedical sciences, or bioengineering. Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques is essential. The ideal candidate will possess strong scientific curiosity and motivation for fundamental cancer research, as well as excellent communication and organisational skills. Experience with epigenomics, omics data analysis, cancer models, or metabolic assays is considered an asset.

The position is open until filled, with a formal application deadline of June 15, 2026. Applications should include a CV, a short motivation letter, contact information for two referees, and optionally a brief description of previous research experience or technical expertise relevant to the project. For more information, prospective candidates are encouraged to contact Dr. Roxane Verdikt or Prof. Bernard Thienpont via email.

KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity as an asset and promoting equal opportunity. The university does not accept any form of discrimination and offers support for accessibility and other needs.

This PhD opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in cancer research, nuclear metabolism, and epigenomics, and who wish to work in a dynamic, international academic setting.