We are actively looking for an enthusiastic and innovative engineer or interdisciplinary scientist with expertise in spatial (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 spatial (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.
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Responsibilities
About the Role:
We are seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to drive development of innovative spatial 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 spatial biology, and make meaningful contributions to the field with far-reaching implications.
• Conceptualize novel technologies for spatial (multi-)omics and their biological or biomedical application.
• Develop spatial 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 spatial omics protocols to enhance throughput and minimize costs.
• Horizon scanning and implementation of novel spatial multi-omics technologies
• Optimize and execute experiments using spatial (multi-)omics methodologies across various sample types.
• Design, optimize, and execute experiments using spatial (multi)omics platforms across various tissue types (human, animal, and plant tissues).
• Handle and analyze human tissues and human model systems to better characterize cellular interactions and study biological mechanisms.
• 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 strong publication record.
• Experience in spatial genomics, transcriptomics or protein methods.
• Experience in nucleic acid probe design, nucleic acid hybridization for in situ RNA- and/or DNA-molecule detection, and imaging via fluorescence and confocal microscopy.
• Extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of classical molecular biology techniques (including DNA/RNA/protein work).
• Experience with high-throughput next-generation sequencing methodologies, including barcoding strategies and library construction methods.
• Experience in highly multiplexed in situ hybridization, in situ sequencing, or in situ molecular barcoding and ex situ sequencing strategies/protocols is a plus.
• 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 the contract. 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 Prof. dr. Thierry Voet, mail: thierry.voet@kuleuven.be or 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.