PhD position on cellular self-organization during development (ref. BAP-2024-384)

Our lab focuses on important fundamental biological questions using experimentally tractable models. We are part of the Bioengineering Faculty at KU Leuven, which has a strong record of combining advanced modeling with experimentation to study living systems for both applied and fundamental research. In Flanders, there is an active and friendly community of C. elegans researchers, with four labs in Leuven. Our lab is located on a beautiful campus just outside historic Leuven.

Unit website

Project

We are recruiting a PhD student with a background in experimental biology to work on self-organization in multicellular systems.

In our lab, we use C. elegans embryogenesis as a model to understand how cells can achieve near-invariant positioning as they form a complex multicellular system. In this project, you will use quantitative microscopy to probe the embryo and perturb the system, for example with temporal and spatial resolution using optogenetics. Our research aims to identify new relevant molecular actors involved in positioning, and to explore the role of mechanics, cellular stiffness, adhesion and cell polarization. The research in our group is multidisciplinary, meaning that experiments and imaging are supported by efforts to expand the molecular biology toolbox, enhance image processing and computational modeling. We also plan to extend our work to include organoid systems for studying early embryogenesis in higher animals in the near future.

The specific content of the PhD project will be developed collaboratively during the first months, with guidance and support from the team. Potential research questions may include optogenetic perturbation of cortical tension during morphogenesis, evaluating mechanosensing in the embryo, or performing an innovative reverse genetic screen for robust cellular positioning. As a member of our team, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art microscopy and computational tools and collaborate with experts in the field.

Profile

• Talented and enthusiastic molecular and cellular biology researcher. Master degree in bioengineering, biology, biotechnology, or similar. Good grasp of molecular and developmental biology as well as genetics with an interest in interdisciplinary work.

• Study results should show high aptitude and research interest 

• Good communicative skills and a collaborative attitude

• Advanced command of English is required (knowledge of Dutch is not required)

Offer

• A high-profile project with great scientific potential 

• Excellent scientific environment in top-ranked university, using state-of-the-art technology and methodology. We publish our research in top journals such as Bioinformatics, E-life, Molecular Biology and Evolution, Nature Genetics, PLoS genetics and Cell Systems, among others.

• Living in the beautiful medieval university town Leuven, a lively city situated in the heart of Europe, 20 km from Brussels 

• Good remuneration and benefits

• Funding is guaranteed (4 years), but the successful candidate will be encouraged to apply for fellowships, such as those by the Flemish funding agency (FWO). 

• Applicants should submit a detailed CV and a cover letter expressing your motivation and interest in the position. 

• Contact details for two referees who can provide academic references (no letters). 

Interested?

For further information you can contact Rob Jelier: rob.jelier@kuleuven.be.

You can apply for this job no later than July 22, 2024 via the online application tool