Postdoctoral Researcher in Cancer Cell Plasticity and Functional Genomics VIB–KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology in United Kingdom

Postdoctoral Researcher in Cancer Cell Plasticity and Functional Genomics at the VIB–KU Leuven Center for Cancer Biology in Leuven, Belgium.

The Laboratory for Functional Genomics and Gene Regulation, established in 2025, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate the molecular mechanisms and genetic dependencies underlying cancer cell plasticity, using pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as the main model system. The project sits at the intersection of cancer biology, gene regulation, chromatin biology, and functional genomics.

The research environment is highly collaborative and international, with English as the working language. The center provides access to advanced infrastructure in functional genomics, single-cell and spatial technologies, flow cytometry, imaging, metabolomics, sequencing, histology, and animal facilities. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to help shape an ambitious and emerging research program, contribute original ideas, and take scientific ownership of a substantial project.

The work will use CRISPR-based genetic perturbation and screening, organoid and in vivo models, molecular engineering, and single-cell/spatial genomics to understand how transcriptional and chromatin regulation drive tumor adaptation, identity switching, and treatment resistance. The position is especially suitable for researchers interested in bridging systematic discovery with mechanistic cancer biology.

Applicants should hold a PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, biomedical sciences, or a closely related field. The post is open to candidates nearing completion of their PhD. A first-author publication or preprint is required, together with strong experimental experience in relevant areas such as functional genomics, cancer models, chromatin regulation, molecular engineering, and/or in vivo work. Excellent written and spoken English is required.

The position is fully funded for three years, initially as a one-year contract with extension after positive evaluation. Funding is independent of personal fellowship applications, although the PI will provide active support for competitive fellowship applications such as EMBO, HFSP, MSCA, and FWO. The preferred start date is as soon as possible, with flexibility by agreement.

Applications must be submitted via the VIB online platform. The application should include a motivation letter, a research summary, a CV with publication list, and contact details for two to three referees. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Informal enquiries can be directed to Olaf Klingbeil at [email protected].