PhD candidate in bioinformatics
(ref. BAP
Laatst aangepast: 05/01/26
The digestive oncology team at KULeuven headed by Prof Sabine Tejpar investigates the development and therapy resistance in colorectal cancers. Their multi-disciplinary approach towards this problem includes beyond-state-of-the-art in vitro and in vivo models, combined with clinical trials with a strong multi-omics based translational research component, to test and validate novel mechanisms and targets overcoming treatment resistance.
Project
The team is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate in bioinformatics to join this multidisciplinary clinical and translational research team focused on advanced multi-omics-based trials in colorectal cancer. The successful candidate will support the analyses of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics datasets generated from the team's ongoing and upcoming industry- and investigator-led clinical trials, with the goal of uncovering mechanisms of treatment resistance. The candidate will be part of a highly interconnected international network of academic and industry partners. The candidate will have full access to cutting-edge computational frameworks, cloud infrastructures, and state-of-the-art single-cell and spatial technologies through these collaborations. You will be embedded in a vibrant environment that values innovation, teamwork, and scientific rigor, with direct impact on ongoing clinical trials.
Key Responsibilities
* Perform end-to-end analysis of single-cell RNA-seq, multiome, and spatial transcriptomics datasets from patient samples.
* Integrate multi-modal genomic, clinical, and pathological data to generate biologically meaningful insights.
* Work closely with clinicians, wet-lab scientists, pathologists, and immunologists to define and prioritize mechanisms of treatment resistance.
* Collaborate with international bioinformatics teams and technology partners to apply the latest analytical pipelines and emerging computational tools.
* Contribute to scientific publications Contribute to scientific publications and presentations at international conferences.
Profile
* Master's degree in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Systems Biology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
* Prior experience with single-cell and/or spatial transcriptomics analysis (e.g., Seurat, Scanpy, Squidpy, Cell Ranger, Space Ranger) is highly desirable but not strictly required—strong interest and willingness to learn are essential.
* Solid programming skills in Python and/or R; experience with reproducible workflows (Git, Snakemake/Nextflow, containers) is a plus.
* Interest in cancer biology, tumor microenvironment biology, or immuno-oncology is an asset.
* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
* Strong communication skills and good organization.
* Proficiency in written and spoken English is required.
Offer
* A 1-year PhD contract, renewable based on performance and following KU Leuven doctoral regulations.
* Integration into a highly interdisciplinary and collaborative environment of clinicians, oncologists, computational scientists, molecular biologists, and international partners.
* Access to advanced single-cell and spatial transcriptomics technologies and cutting-edge computational infrastructure.
* The opportunity to contribute to translational research directly linked to clinical trials, with high scientific and clinical impact.
* A supportive and dynamic workplace that values curiosity, initiative, and scientific excellence.
Interested?
Candidates need to submit the following documents in pdf format using the KU Leuven application tool:
* Motivation letter
* Curriculum Vitae
For more information contact Dr Sara Verbandt ) or Prof Sabine Tejpar )
You can apply for this job no later than January 23, 2026 via the online application tool
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
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Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds
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Locatie: Leuven
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Solliciteren tot en met:
23/01/2026 23:59 CET
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Tags: Oncologie