We are actively looking for an enthusiastic and innovative engineer or interdisciplinary scientist with expertise in single-cell (multi-)omics method development to join a multi-disciplinary team headed by Prof. Thierry Voet at the KU Leuven Institute
for Single Cell Omics (LISCO). As a postdoctoral researcher, you will lead and drive single-cell (multi-)omics method development and play a crucial role in technology innovation, data generation and analysis.
This position is embedded within the innovation lab of LISCO, which serves as a hub for interdisciplinary experts in single-cell and spatial (multi-)omics research at KU Leuven and beyond.
About us:
The landscape of biology and medicine is undergoing a transformation through single-cell and spatially resolved omics technologies. LISCO stands at the forefront of this revolution, actively reshaping our understanding of the biology of cells in health
and disease through single-cell and spatial omics (SCS-omics) technologies. Our aim is to pioneer innovation, application and clinical translation of SCS-omics technologies, together with the University Hospitals (UZ Leuven) as well as industry.
Using cutting-edge SCS-omics, we are committed to unravelling the complexities of human development, ageing, and disease biology, with therapeutic potential in the clinic.
Website unit
Responsibilities
About the Role:
We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to drive development of innovative single-cell multi-omics methods.
In this role, you will design methods, execute experiments, analyze data, and collaborate closely with our interdisciplinary team.
This position offers an exceptional opportunity to expand your expertise, advance your research profile in single-cell biology, and make meaningful contributions to the field with far-reaching implications.
• Conceptualize novel technologies for single-cell (multi-)omics and their biological or biomedical application.
• Develop single-cell multi-omics methods in an interdisciplinary innovation lab.
• Troubleshoot and optimize protocols to ensure a high level of quality and reliability of generated results.
• Develop automated and/or miniaturized versions of established protocols to enhance throughput and minimize costs.
• Optimize and execute experiments using single-cell (multi-)omics methodologies across various sample types.
• Horizon scanning and implementation of novel single-cell multi-omics technologies
• Be co-responsible for the successful completion and timely delivery of project milestones.
• Collaborate with the team to translate technical and biological insights into compelling grant applications.
• Foster new relationships with internal and external interdisciplinary research groups.
• Report and communicate progress in meetings, publish scientific articles, and participate in international conferences.
Profile
• PhD in life sciences (bioengineering, biomedical sciences, genomics or equivalent) with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience with method development.
• Extensive experience with methods and applications for single-cell (multi-)omics.
• Extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of classical molecular biology techniques (including DNA/RNA/protein work).
• Extensive experience with high-throughput next-generation sequencing methodologies, including barcoding strategies and library construction methods.
• Experience in designing high throughput and/or complex experimental workflows.
• Experience with troubleshooting.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
• Genuine interest and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work seamlessly across interdisciplinary teams.
• Excellent verbal and written English communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently together with advanced problem-solving skills.
• Experience with high-throughput assay automation, including liquid handling robotics and microfluidics, is a plus.
• Experience with analyzing and reporting on large-scale datasets and/or single-cell (multi-)omics data is a plus.
Offer
We provide full-time employment in a stimulating international work environment equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.
Initially, we offer a 2-year postdoctoral position with the possibility to extend. Candidates are encouraged to apply for additional (inter)national funding and fellowships.
You will be based in Leuven, a historic, dynamic and lively city in the heart of Belgium, within close proximity to major European capitals.
KU Leuven is a research-intensive, internationally-oriented university that conducts fundamental and applied scientific research.
It is highly inter- and multidisciplinary focused and strives for international excellence.
Interested?
For more information please contact Dr. Katy Vandereyken, mail: katy.vandereyken@kuleuven.be.
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.