Application deadline: 15 December 2026, or until the position is filled
Start date: flexible, ideally between February and May 2027 l Duration: 2-year fulltime contract
About the lab
Research at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology (CfM) aims to increase our basic understanding of microbes and higher organisms, and translate this knowledge into environmental, industrial and medical applications and new innovative biotech companies. The center is embedded within VIB and KU Leuven, one of Europe's leading research universities, providing a dynamic and internationally connected scientific environment.
The Laboratory for Genome Editing and System Genetics at CfM develops high-throughput CRISPR technologies to understand how genetic variation shapes biological function. At the heart of our research is MAGESTIC (https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt.4137), a CRISPR-based technology that enables precise engineering of thousands of defined mutations in parallel, in a single test tube. By linking each mutation to a unique DNA barcode, we can track variants across large cell populations and quantify their functional effects through high-throughput screens. This powerful connection between genotype and phenotype opens up exciting opportunities in fundamental biology, biotechnology, and synthetic biology. Our multidisciplinary research combines high-throughput genome editing, genomics and computational biology to map how genetic variation shapes molecular and cellular phenotypes at unprecedented scale and resolution.
Based in Leuven, Belgium, just 25 km from Brussels, our lab offers the opportunity to work in a vibrant international university city, known for its historic charm, lively cultural scene, and excellent connections to other European cities.
About the role
We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher with a strong computational background to join our collaborative and interdisciplinary team. The successful candidate will join an exciting research project exploring how synonymous mutations, often assumed to be silent, shape gene expression and cellular phenotypes. Leveraging large-scale synonymous saturation mutagenesis libraries and a powerful suite of reporters already established in the lab, we systematically measure the impact of thousands of mutations across multiple molecular layers, from RNA and protein abundance and stability to protein function and cellular fitness. By integrating these complementary readouts, we aim to uncover the mechanisms through which synonymous sequence variation influences biological function. Your role will be to turn these rich, multidimensional datasets into biological insights. Working closely with experimental researchers, you will have the opportunity to develop and apply innovative computational approaches to identify patterns, uncover underlying mechanisms, and build predictive models linking genetic variation to molecular and cellular phenotypes. The project offers considerable freedom to explore new ideas and shape the computational direction of the research.
Your profile
- You have a PhD in computational biology, bioinformatics, systems biology, genomics, computer science, or a related quantitative field.
- You have demonstrated experience in analyzing and integrating complex large-scale datasets and extracting biological insights.
- You have experience with advanced computational and statistical approaches, ideally including machine learning and/or artificial intelligence. Prior experience with high-throughput mutagenesis data is an advantage but not a must.
- You have a genuine passion for science and enthusiasm for tackling challenging biological questions.
- You are a self-motivated, kind and inclusive team player who works well in a collaborative, international environment.
- You have excellent spoken and written English skills (English is our working language).
Our offer
Join a vibrant, collaborative, and international research environment at the forefront of genome engineering, molecular genetics, and functional genomics. You will have the opportunity to pursue exciting scientific questions, develop your own ideas, and benefit from state-of-the-art research infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies.
We offer an internationally competitive salary and benefits, along with excellent opportunities for professional development through a wide range of training and leadership programs. VIB also provides dedicated grant-writing support for researchers interested in applying for competitive postdoctoral fellowships, which we actively encourage.
The start date is flexible, ideally between February and May 2027.
How to apply
Please submit your application through the VIB job portal: https://jobs.vib.be/apply/138005.
Be sure it includes:
- A detailed CV.
- A 1-page motivation letter describing how your research experiences and interests are aligned with the lab.
- The names and contact details of at least 2 referees.
Email applications will not be considered.
The selection process
Short-listed candidates will first be invited to a virtual interview; finalists will then visit the lab for a one-day on-site interview. We will accept applications until the position is filled.
In case of questions, please email [email protected] .
