PhD in Bioinformatics
(ref. BAP-2025-501)
Laatst aangepast: 24/07/25
Laatst aangepast: 24/07/25
WHO ARE WE AND WHAT DO WE DO?
One in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime. The Laboratory for Translational Breast Cancer Research (LTBCR) attempts to answer critical and novel research questions within the spectrum of translational breast cancer research, in close collaboration within the clinic and other transdisciplinary labs and institutions. With a special focus on the breast cancer-adiposity connection, breast cancer progression and less common types of breast cancer, the research at LTBCR combines elements of histopathology, multi-omics and bioinformatics approaches, clinical oncology and fundamental biology.
One in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime. The Laboratory for Translational Breast Cancer Research (LTBCR) attempts to answer critical and novel research questions within the spectrum of translational breast cancer research, in close collaboration within the clinic and other transdisciplinary labs and institutions. With a special focus on the breast cancer-adiposity connection, breast cancer progression and less common types of breast cancer, the research at LTBCR combines elements of histopathology, multi-omics and bioinformatics approaches, clinical oncology and fundamental biology.
Project
WHAT DOES THE PhD SPECIFICALLY IMPLY?
The candidate will be working as a bio-informatics PhD student on the data generated within our UPTIDER postmortem tissue donation program. The main objective of UPTIDER is to unravel metastatic breast cancer evolution, biology, heterogeneity and treatment resistance. Specifically, we will apply whole genome/exome and RNA bulk/single-cell or nuclei sequencing from a various source of tissues and body fluids samples collected during the autopsy. In addition, the candidate will actively be contributing to and maintaining an open science environment which is essential for the lab (https://gbiomed.kuleuven.be/english/research/50488876/54887282/ltbcr_os). It allows for comprehensive clinical data and sample metadata collection, as well as reproducible research. It also fosters collaboration between team members and the broader scientific community.
Profile
WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
- Preferably a master’s degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, biostatistics, bioengineering or artificial intelligence
- Experience with advanced statistical methods, including mixed model regressions and survival analyses as well as with phylogenetic reconstruction
- Experience with high-performance computing and tools that facilitate open science, such as Git and workflow managers
Valuable assets:
- Team spirit: Challenging projects only succeed with a close-knit team. We are looking for someone who helps and supports others, with a positive attitude.
- Flexibility: Being open to occasionally work outside of regular working hours if necessary for the UPTIDER autopsy program.
- Organizational skills: Maintaining an overview of various projects and tasks, working meticulously, plan the work independently.
- Communication skills: Good communication is essential. Therefore open communication style, both within the team and with external partners is essential. Very good written and spoken English is essential.
Offer
WHAT CAN WE OFFER?
The chance to actively contribute to groundbreaking breast cancer research at a high level. Thanks to the intense collaboration with clinicians at UZ Leuven and the high ambitions of Prof. Desmedt and the team, we can achieve breakthroughs that make a real difference for future generations of patients.
What can be expected:
- Dynamic Working Environment: LTBCR is a young and diverse team of enthusiastic researchers, where quality, professionalism and a strong team spirit are key. Collaboration is stimulated by constructive lab meetings, joint lunches and team-building activities.
- Independence and Guidance: Necessary guidance and supervision from the lab head and experienced colleagues will be provided, to guarantee an optimal development.
- Personal Development: We offer plenty of opportunities for growth, such as training, courses and workshops, which contribute to expanding your knowledge and skills.
- Great Location: Our well-equipped lab is in a modern building on the Gasthuisberg campus in Leuven, a vibrant university town just 20 minutes away from Brussels.
Interested?
Are you ready for this unique challenge? Join our team and make an impact in the world of breast cancer research!
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Christine Desmedt, tel.: +32 16 19 33 06, mail: [email protected] or Mrs. Marion Maetens, tel.: +32 16 32 11 94, mail: [email protected].
You can apply for this job no later than August 31, 2025 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.
Heb je een vraag over de online sollicitatieprocedure? Raadpleeg onze veelgestelde vragen of stuur een e-mail naar [email protected]
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Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds
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Locatie: Leuven
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Solliciteren tot en met:31/08/2025 23:59 CET
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Tags: Oncologie, Bio-ingenieurswetenschappen, Geneeskunde, Biologie, Computerwetenschappen
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