Bernard Thienpont

This PhD project offers an exciting opportunity to investigate compartmentalised metabolism in tumour hypoxia, focusing on the interface between nuclear metabolism, chromatin regulation, and single-cell epigenomics in cancer. The research is part of a joint doctoral programme between KU Leuven and UCLouvain, with activities shared between the Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics (KU Leuven) and the Metabolic Research Group (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 combine molecular and cellular biology, metabolic approaches, and functional genomics to study how tumour hypoxia reshapes nuclear metabolic pathways and epigenetic regulation. Candidates will benefit from the complementary expertise, infrastructure, and scientific communities of KU Leuven and UCLouvain. The research environment is inclusive, diverse, and committed to equal opportunity, with support available for accessibility and other needs. 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 required. Strong scientific curiosity, motivation for fundamental cancer research, and excellent communication and organisational skills are essential. Experience with epigenomics, omics data analysis, cancer models, or metabolic assays is considered an asset. The successful candidate will be jointly enrolled at both institutions and will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and expertise. The position will remain 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 applicants are encouraged to contact Dr. Roxane Verdikt or Prof. Bernard Thienpont by email. KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful research environment, embracing diversity as an asset and ensuring equal opportunity for all. Apply directly via the KU Leuven job portal using the provided link.