Summary
The VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join their team starting January 1st, 2027. The successful candidate will take a leading role in completing an ongoing mammalian Deep Mutational Scanning (DMS) study of IFNAR1, a key receptor in the interferon-mediated antiviral response. Additionally, the role involves expanding the application of a universal landing pad platform for variant interpretation in cancer-associated genes, project management, and mentoring students.
Postdoctoral Scientist in Cell Engineering and Functional Genomics, Ghent University, Belgium
Designation
Postdoctoral Scientist
Key Details
| Category | Information |
| Job ID | 30062 |
| Institution | Ghent University |
| Faculty | Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences |
| Department | GE31 – Biomoleculaire Geneeskunde |
| Employment Type | Contract of unlimited duration (100% Occupancy rate) |
| Number of Positions | 1 |
| Wage Scale | PD1 to PD4 (doctoral degree) |
Research Area
Cell Engineering, Functional Genomics, and Medical Biotechnology (focusing on mammalian Deep Mutational Scanning, interactomics, and proteomics).
Location
Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium.
Eligibility/Qualification
- Education: A thesis-based PhD in Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, or a related field (obtained a maximum of 6 years ago, based on the diploma date).
- Experience:
- Expertise in mammalian DMS or other high-throughput functional genomics.
- Hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture, cell line engineering, and flow cytometry.
- Ability to execute complex, non-standard experimental workflows.
- Skills:
- Strong organizational and project management skills with high attention to detail.
- Excellent written and spoken English, including scientific writing capabilities.
- Team player who can also work independently.
- Interest in mentoring and knowledge transfer.
- Proactive, flexible mindset, and motivated to apply for external funding.
Job Description
- Lead and complete an ongoing IFNAR1 DMS study, including generating datasets, integrative analyses, and manuscript preparation.
- Contribute to the further development and application of the universal landing pad platform (e.g., for cancer-associated genes like BRIP1).
- Collaborate with the staff scientist and coordinate experimental workflows with technical staff.
- Supervise master’s students and support the onboarding of incoming PhD students and postdoctoral researchers.
- Contribute to project coordination and collaborate with research teams within VIB, UGent, and other Belgian universities.
- Deliver a guest lecture on MAVEs at UGent (optional opportunity).
- Actively seek and apply for external funding.
- Note: At least 70% of the assignment will be dedicated to academic research.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their application strictly online via the Ghent University e-recruitment system. Applications submitted via email or other channels will not be accepted.
Please attach the following documents (maximum upload limit of 10 MB per field):
- CV: Your current resume/curriculum vitae.
- Motivation letter: A letter detailing your interest and fit for the role.
- Diploma: A copy of the required PhD diploma (if already obtained).
- Other documents: Reference letters, transcripts, or other supporting documents as appropriate.
Last Date to Apply
12 August 2026 (August 12, 2026) at 23:59 (Brussels Time).
