Postdoc in Microbial Genetics and Metabolism

Deadline to apply: June 20, 2026

About the role We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher with expertise in microbial genetics and molecular biology to join an interdisciplinary project investigating how microbial enzymes and metabolism influence global carbon cycling and long-term carbon storage in the ocean. The project will involve applying genetic approaches to non-model marine bacteria to modify their genomes and/or overexpress genes. The postdoc will link these genetic perturbations to changes in metabolic and biochemical function, monitored using enzyme assays, metabolomics, and growth experiments. We are particularly interested in candidates with strong experimental backgrounds in microbial genetics, bacterial physiology, synthetic biology, or related areas of molecular microbiology. Experience working beyond standard bacterial model systems (e.g. E. coli ) is highly desirable. Prior experience in environmental microbiology is not required. Our lab specializes in high-throughput metabolomics and enzyme assays, and in combining these approaches to answer new types of biological questions. The postdoc will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry platforms and exposure to high-throughput metabolomics and biochemical approaches. We’re seeking someone independent, curious, and driven. As part of a growing lab, you’ll play a central role in shaping a positive lab environment. We’re especially looking for someone ready to take on a leadership role, who enjoys mentoring students, working across disciplines, and participating in collaborations to expand their scientific network and research profile. About the lab The lab of Sammy Pontrelli started at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology in Jan 2025. Our interdisciplinary research combines metabolomics, genetics, biochemistry, and microbial physiology to understand how microbial metabolism and interactions shape carbon transformation and long-term carbon storage in the ocean. We develop high-throughput experimental approaches to understand how microbial processes scale from molecular mechanisms to ecosystem-level carbon cycling. Your profile Essential requirements Experience with genetic systems in non-model bacteriaPhD in a biologically related field (Microbiology, biotechnology, etc)Basic laboratory experience with molecular biology, microbiology or enzyme assaysExperience leading a molecular level, biologically oriented projectExcellent communication skills in English Willingness to apply for external postdoc funding (e.g. EMBO, Marie-Curie, FWO postdoc fellowships) Desirable but not required Detailed understanding of central carbon metabolism and/or environmental microbiology Experience with in vitro enzyme assays Programming skills in R Key personal characteristics Willingness to participate in interdisciplinary collaborationsAbility to take on leadership and mentoring roles in a starting lab, including equipment responsibilities Commitment to an inclusive and diverse lab, promoting a positive environment Our offer The starting date is mid-January 2027 for 3 years, pending a 1-year positive evaluation. State-of-the-art QTOF mass spectrometers and other equipment Ability to work on high-impact research topics Possibility to participate in interdisciplinary conferences Training in high throughput metabolomics, enzymology, and microbial physiology How to apply If you are interested, please apply via the online VIB platform (), including the below documents:  A description of why you are interested in this postdoc position and your career aspirations A description of your previous wet lab experience, and the biological questions you addressed in your PhD. Your CV Contact information of at least 2 references The deadline to apply is June 20th. Applicants will be contacted about interviews by the end of the month.

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About VIB VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute across four universities with a strong track record of translating scientific breakthroughs into societal innovations and biotech companies. The Center for Microbiology in Leuven is embedded within KU Leuven, one of Europe's oldest and most prominent universities, consistently ranked in the top 50 worldwide. Leuven is located about 10 miles from Brussels, with frequent direct train connections to Brussels Airport.

Company

VIB’s core mission is to generate disruptive insights in the molecular underpinning of life and to translate these actively into impactful innovations for patients and society. VIB is an independent research institute where some 1,800 top scientists from Belgium and abroad conduct pioneering basic research. As such, they are pushing the boundaries of what we know about molecular mechanisms and how they rule living organisms such as human beings, animals, plants, and microorganisms. Based on a close partnership with five Flemish universities – Ghent University, KU Leuven, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, and Hasselt University – and supported by a solid funding program, VIB unites the expertise of all its collaborators and research groups in a single institute. VIB’s technology transfer activities translate research results into concrete benefits for society such as new diagnostics and therapies and agricultural innovations. These applications are often developed by young start-ups from VIB or through collaborations with other companies. This also leads to additional employment and bridges the gap between scientific research and entrepreneurship. VIB also engages actively in the public debate on biotechnology by developing and disseminating a wide range of science-based information. 

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