Postdoc Position

We’re looking for a postdoc with hands-on experience in genetically modifying marine phytoplankton—someone excited to learn how microbes naturally sequester carbon in the environment and ultimately accelerate these activities to combat climate change. Our approach combines science and engineering, beginning with the study of fundamental microbial metabolic processes that can be harnessed for further engineering. The ideal candidate has led a molecular-level scientific research project and has technical expertise in CRISPR, gene transformation, or other genetic tools applied to one of any marine phytoplankton.

We are a new lab and a close-knit team working to harness microbes to address environmental challenges and climate change. We’re looking for someone to contribute their phytoplankton genetics expertise and learn our approaches in high-throughput metabolomics, enzyme assays, cellular metabolism, and metabolic engineering.

We’re seeking someone independent, curious, and driven. As part of a starting 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.

The lab of Sammy Pontrelli started at the VIB-KU Leuven Center for Microbiology in January 2025. The overarching goal is to identify the key factors controlling microbe-mediated carbon storage in the ocean, with a focus on using model microbial systems in the lab. We specialize in high throughput metabolomics, and combining enzyme assays with metabolomics to study biological processes in new ways.

VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute across 5 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 10 miles from Brussels, with frequent direct train connections to Brussels airport.

• PhD in a biologically related field (Microbiology, biotechnology, etc)
• Hands on experience in phytoplankton genetics (we are open to any type of phytoplankton)
• Experience leading a molecular level, biologically oriented project
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Excited to help shape a super positive and social environment 

Key personal characteristics 

• Independent and driven
• Enthusiasm to take on leadership and mentoring roles in a starting lab
• Team player
• Clear communicator
• Hands on experience in phytoplankton genetics (we are open to any type of phytoplankton)
• Experience leading a molecular level, biologically oriented project
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Excited to help shape a super positive and social environment 😊

• You can expand your skillset to a plethora of new techniques. We offer training in high throughput metabolomics, enzymology, microbial physiology, metabolic engineering and other molecular techniques
• Ability to participate in interdisciplinary collaborations
• State-of-the-art QTOF mass spectrometers and other equipment
• Ability to work on high-impact research topics
• Support for applying to fellowships 
•  Attendance at international conferences 

The starting date is August-Sept 2025, with a starting contract of 2 years, and a possible extension to 3-5 years.

If you are interested, please include the following in your application:

• A cover letter describing why you want a postdoc, your career aspirations, your experiences in phytoplankton genetics, and a description of your previous research
• Your CV
• Contact information of at least 2 references

Please submit applications before June 5 2025. Online Interviews will take place June 11 and 12