Postdoctoral Researcher in Cancer Cell Plasticity and Functional Genomics

VIB

Leuven, Belgium

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to investigate the molecular mechanisms and genetic dependencies underlying cancer cell plasticity, using pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as our primary model.

Cancer cell plasticity enables tumors to adapt to changing environmental conditions, progress, and develop resistance to treatment. We aim to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes, with a particular focus on how transcriptional and chromatin regulation shape cancer cell identity and behavior. Using pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) as our primary model, we seek to uncover fundamental mechanisms of tumor adaptation and identify new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.

Our research combines functional genomics with advanced experimental cancer models and mechanistic investigation. We employ CRISPR-based genetic perturbation and screening, organoid and in vivo models, molecular engineering, and single-cell and spatial genomics. By integrating systematic genetic discovery with detailed mechanistic studies, we aim to advance our understanding of cancer biology while developing innovative experimental approaches to address challenging biological questions.

You will take a leading role in shaping and advancing an ambitious research project within this program. Rather than following a narrowly prescribed project, you will have the opportunity to develop original hypotheses, establish experimental strategies, and pursue discoveries that build on your expertise and scientific interests.

We are particularly interested in researchers who enjoy bridging functional genomics with fundamental cancer biology, who are excited by technically challenging questions, and who want to develop their own scientific identity within a collaborative and supportive environment.

Your profile

Essential qualifications

• A PhD in cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline. Candidates approaching completion of their PhD are welcome to apply;
• At least one first-author research publication or preprint;
• Strong experimental research experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Functional genomics, particularly CRISPR-based genetic perturbation and screening;
  • Cancer biology, including tumor models, cancer cell signaling, or cellular plasticity;
  • Chromatin biology and gene regulation, including transcriptional or epigenetic mechanisms;
  • In vivo cancer research, including mouse tumor models and associated experimental techniques;
  • Advanced molecular and cellular engineering, including viral vector design and production, molecular cloning, or organoid culture.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and critically interpret experiments;
• Excellent written and spoken English;
• Willingness to apply for competitive personal postdoctoral fellowships, with active support and guidance from the principal investigator.

Additional expertise that would be valuable

• Pooled CRISPR screening, lentiviral or AAV-based delivery systems, or next-generation sequencing library preparation;
• Pancreatic cancer models, orthotopic tumor models, or FELASA certification;
• Single-cell or spatial transcriptomics, chromatin accessibility profiling, genetic barcoding, or lineage tracing;
• Experience with computational analysis of sequencing data using R or Python;
• Previous experience mentoring or supervising students.

Experience in all these areas is not expected. We value strong expertise in a relevant field, scientific curiosity, and the motivation to acquire new skills. Training and opportunities to develop additional experimental and computational expertise will be available.