Doctoral researcher with background in bioinformatics

(ref. BAP-2023-74)

Last modification : Sunday, February 5, 2023

The laboratory of Prof. Schalk van der Merwe is part of the department of Chronic Inflammation and Metabolism (CHROMETA) located in KU Leuven – Campus Gasthuisberg.

The Hepatology group is an expert research laboratory with a strong track record using translational projects in studying the molecular- and cellular mechanisms underlying liver disease. Our group combines pre-clinical and clinical expertise with state of the art (single cell sequencing) technology to provide top quality research and to create a stimulating setting for bidirectional interaction between basic and clinical researchers. This research environment allows a fast translation of discoveries from bench to bedside with improvement of patient care as ultimate goal. Our group has focused on the role of macrophages and monocytes in the development of chronic liver disease and cirrhosis. We further aim to interrogate how myeloid-derived cells in the circulation or from other organ sites contribute to cirrhosis- associated complications or disease progression in the liver. Within all ongoing projects, we combine single-cell transcriptomics with spatial validation as well as additional functional assays to unravel immunological or metabolic defects linked to disease pathophysiology. These insights in immune cell function and metabolism can aid in the design of novel therapeutic strategies for patients with liver disease.

Job description

We are recruiting motivated PhD candidates to help us achieve following goals:

• to discover new therapeutic targets (using single cell (multi-)omics on surgical samples from human and mouse models)

• to perform bioinformatical analysis & biological interpretation on the data generated

• to functionally validating these targets using in vitro & in vivo assays but also in additional patient cohorts

• to participate in weekly team meetings to update your research results to your colleagues as well as to high-level seminars to disseminate your findings

• to support the writing of papers and design and execution of experiments, etc.

Your Profile

• You have a Master Degree in biology/biomedicine, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics/computer science (AI), or related fields.

• Having any experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell culture, liver disease research and especially in bioinformatics/computer science is an advantage.

• You have a strong commitment to basic/clinical research.

• Basic standard values: (i) You are interested and motivated to work on ambitious projects in an open, dynamic and driven team; (ii) You have a hands-on, proactive and results-driven attitude and are able to work in a team as well as independently; (iii) You have a strong ability to multi-task, meet timelines and work accurately; (iv) You have good communication skills in spoken and written English.

We offer

• A dynamic and stimulating working environment in a young, enthusiastic, motivated international team (with English as main language).

• You will have access to, and excellent training in, state-of-the-art technologies in biomedical research. The KU Leuven has multiple core- facilities managed by a team of experts.

• The initial appointment is for one year and the student will be required to apply for FWO or other funding.

How to apply?

Your application should contain:

• Complete CV

• Motivation letter

• List of publications (if applicable)

• Summary of your past research experiences

• Degree during Master studies

• Contact information or reference letters of 2 or 3 referees

If you have questions about this position, please contact [email protected]

and [email protected].

KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected].