Post-Doctoral Researcher: High-throughput precision genome editing and systems genetics

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 Laboratory for Genome Editing and System Genetics at CfM combines development of high-throughput genome editing tools with large-scale screens to study fundamental principles in molecular and complex trait genetics using microbes as model systems. Our core technology MAGESTIC (https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt.4137 ), a CRISPR/Cas9-based method, can engineer thousands of defined mutations in parallel in a single test tube in yeast. Strains are tagged by DNA barcodes, allowing to efficiently track mutations in cell populations during functional screens and read out mutation identities via barcode sequencing. By providing a direct link between sequence and function MAGESTIC enables massively scaled screens of precise mutations, with applications in fundamental research, biotechnology and synthetic biology. Our multidisciplinary research combines high-throughput genome editing, state-of-the-art genomics methods, and computational biology.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated individual to join our team as a Postdoctoral Researcher. You will join a collaborative team of two researchers developing next-generation combinatorial editing tools and applying them to study genetic interactions. As all our projects integrate high-throughput experiments with computational analyses we are particularly interested in candidates who have experience with – or a strong interest in – both experimental and computational approaches.

What we’re looking for

• Hands-on experience in one or more of the following: CRISPR/Cas systems, high-throughput screening, complex trait biology, genetic interactions, genomics, bioinformatics.
• A passion for science.
• Self-motivated, kind and inclusive team players who work well in a collaborative, international environment.
• Excellent spoken and written English (our working language).

Positions are available from fall 2025 (negotiable) with an internationally competitive salary and benefits. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of genome engineering, molecular genetics and functional genomics in a collaborative and international team. You will have access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and services, as well as a broad range of training and leadership programs designed to expand your skills and expertise. Excellent grant-writing support is available at VIB for those interested in applying for competitive postdoctoral fellowships, and such applications are actively encouraged.

Submit your application through the VIB application tool (email applications will not be considered). Be sure it includes:

• A detailed CV.
• A 1-page letter of intent describing how your research experiences and interests are aligned with the lab.
• The names and contact details of 2-3 referees.

For more information, please contact Dr. Sibylle Vonesch (sibylle.vonesch@kuleuven.be ) (only clarifications or further details regarding the vacancy – no applications accepted via email).

Application review starts 1 September. 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.