Jobs

Job description 

We are seeking two highly motivated postdoctoral researchers to join our research team based in the Van de Peer lab, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Zhen Li, Assistant Professor at Ghent University/VIB Staff Scientist.

The two positions are funded through an FWO research grant awarded to Prof. Dr. Zhen Li and will focus on the evolutionary significance of gene loss in shaping plant adaptation, speciation, and biological innovations. 

This project aims to redefine our understanding of gene loss alongside gene gain in plant evolution, focusing on developing novel genomic approaches to analyze gene loss across diverse plant lineages and their evolutionary consequences. To this end, the initial focus will be developing a novel genomic approach integrating homolog identification and multiple genome alignment to identify gene loss in plants and investigating its links with species divergence and adaptive traits in various plant clades, e.g., Orchidaceae, Poaceae, Solanaceae, Brassicaceae, and Fagales.

Research Focus

While the two positions will work closely together and share many responsibilities, they have slightly different initial focus areas:

Position 1: Computational Genomics and Method Development

• Develop novel genomic frameworks for detecting gene loss in plant genomes
• Implement approaches to distinguish DNA deletion from pseudogenization
• Analysis of gene loss patterns across diverse plant lineages
• Explore graph-based algorithms for multiple genome alignment and ancestral karyotype reconstruction

Position 2: Evolutionary Analysis and Network Biology

• Analysis of cross-species/-ecotype co-expression and gene regulatory networks
• Study of molecular mechanisms underlying how gene loss affects biological network rewiring
• Integration of phenotypic data with omics analysis
• Explore machine learning and network analysis methods

Profile

Essential 

• A PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Evolutionary Biology, or related fields
• Strong programming skills in Python, R, and experience with Linux environments
• Demonstrated experience in processing and analyzing large-scale genomic and transcriptomic datasets
• Strong publication track record in evolutionary biology and/or network biology
• Excellent communication skills and fluency in English (written and verbal)
• Willingness to learn new methods and tackle scientific challenges with creativity and rigor
• A good balance between working in a team and working independently
• You are an enthused team player who is open and respectful to other cultures, opinions and ways of life 

Desirable but not required 

• Experience with machine learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, Tensorflow, Keras)
• Experience with graph algorithms and network analysis
• Experience with explainable AI (e.g., SHAP)
• Experience with high-performance computing and software containers
• Experience with software development tools (e.g., git, Nextflow) 

We offer

The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology is a world-leading science institution in Ghent, Belgium. Ghent University is among the top 100 global universities according to several international rankings.

• A fully funded, full-time postdoctoral position for one year (with possibility of a two-year extension after positive evaluation) in a stimulating and supportive international research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art tools and computational infrastructure, including CPU/GPU clusters
• Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in plant evolution and genomics
• Support for attending international conference and developing professional networks
• Comprehensive training in academic, technical, and career skills through VIB and Ghent University
•  The position appointment start date is as soon as possible. 

How to apply? 

Motivated candidates are asked to apply online via the VIB application procedure.

A complete application file (English) should contain the following documents:

• A cover/motivation letter (max. 2 pages) stating career goals, experience, and how these relate to your preferred position 1 and/or 2
• A detailed CV, including a list of your scientific publications
• Contact information of at least two academic references 

For more information or inquiries about the position, mail to zhen.li@psb.vib-ugent.be

About the labs involved 

The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology (PSB) is a world-leading plant science institute located at the heart of a renowned plant biotechnology campus in Ghent, Belgium. Its mission is to unravel plant biological processes and translate this knowledge into value for society. 

The Functional Phosphoproteomics group (https://www.desmetlab.be/), tackles early temperature signalling in plants, such as the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana and the crop plants wheat and soybean. To unravel this, we focus on dynamic changes in protein phosphorylation status, since temporary and reversible phosphorylation of proteins is essential in regulating various processes. Through a phosphoproteomics approach, the lab has identified potential key regulators of thermomorphogenesis in A. thaliana and wheat, which we started to functionally characterize.

The Vascular Development group (https://www.derybellab.be), studies plant vascular development at the interface between developmental biology, cell biology and evolutionary biology. We like to implement novel omics technologies such as single cell approaches and chemical biology to help us answering our biological questions.

The Brassinosteroid group (https://www.russinovalab.be) studies the function of brassinosteroid hormones in stomatal development, focusing on mechanisms of signal integration between brassinosteroid and stomatal signalling pathways. Currently, the group explores how GSK3-like kinases, key negative regulators of brassinosteroid signalling, achieve signalling specificity through scaffold proteins using single-cell, cell biology, and proteomics approaches.

The Advanced Live Cell Imaging group (https:www//vandammelab.be) studies endomembrane trafficking in Arabidopsis, with a strong focus on clathrin-mediated endocytosis. In the framework of this project, the Van Damme lab is interested in how the interplay between the various secretory carrier membrane proteins (SCAMPs) and the various types of plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIPs) controls stomatal dynamics.

For this project, the PSB labs will collaborate with the Gevaert lab of the neighbouring VIB-UGent Center for Medical Biotechnology (https://gevaertlab.sites.vib.be/en#/). One of the Gevaert lab’s research interest is low-input to single-cell, mass spectrometry-based proteomics, for which they have swift access to state-of-the-art instruments. They are particularly interested in pushing the boundaries of this emerging research field by zooming in on protein modifications as well.

Background information 

The stomatal lineage represents an ideal model system due to the wealth of information on both development and the dynamic changes due to environmental conditions; and the availability of many stage-specific marker lines and scRNA-seq data. There is however great variability in stomatal responses, even in a single leaf under stress conditions where subsets of stomata close while others remain open. Currently, there are no markers to distinguish between these different stomatal populations. We therefore ultimately need single cell resolution to understand the dynamic changes in protein abundance and – ideally – in protein phosphorylation events in stomata during stress responses. 

Job description 

The consortium of labs is looking to recruit 1 highly-motivated postdoctoral researcher, who will be involved in elucidating the underlying signalling mechanisms that play a role in regulating plant growth under a changing climate, especially high temperature. The applicant will be tasked with mapping the dynamic changes in the stomata (phospho)proteome through low-input proteomics and single-cell mass spectrometry-based proteomics. First under control conditions to establish the methodology and, secondly, under abiotic stress conditions.

Profile 

Essential 

• You have an international PhD in (plant) molecular biology or biochemistry with max. 4 years of postdoc experience. 
• You are an expert in molecular biology, biochemistry and/or (plant) biotechnology. 
• You have guided (master/PhD) students and/or technicians. 
• You can take initiative, function well in a team, and have a hands-on mentality, perseverance and a critical mindset.
• You look forward to the collaborative environment and interaction with multiple teams. You are comfortable with coordinating a project between labs.
• You are proficient in the use of the English language for both oral and written communication. 

Desirable but not required 

• Experience with (low input or single cell) mass spectrometry-based proteomics. 
• A publication record in peer-reviewed journals in the field of life sciences’ is an asset. 
• You are eligible and willing to apply for Marie Curie and/or EMBO postdoctoral fellowships. 

Key personal characteristics

• You have a strong sense of responsibility, maintaining a clean working environment.
• You can accurately compile and document experiments (using an ELN). 
• You have a no-nonsense can-do attitude.
• You build team interactions quickly.
• You feel great in a fun team and add to that spirit.
• You communicate clearly, candidly, and respectfully.

We offer 

• A 1 year postdoc position, with the possibility to extend for 1 year
• A multidisciplinary, highly stimulating and supporting international research environment at VIB and Ghent University (UGent). 
• Access to state-of-the-art tools and infrastructure, including core facilities for proteomics. 
• Various training opportunities are organized at VIB to broaden your expertise and skills (training.vib.be). 
• Tentative start date: Fall 2025

How to apply? 

Submit your application through the VIB application tool. The call will remain open until a suitable candidate is identified. 

Make sure that your application includes: 

• A detailed CV 
• A one-page summary of past research activities (e.g. in PhD/PostDoc projects) 
• A one-page letter of intent describing your motivation for this position, how your research experiences and interests are aligned with those of the lab and research topic and future goals 
• The names and contact details of 3 referees.

Overview

The group of Specialized Metabolism, led by Prof. Alain Goossens at the VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology, and the metabolic engineering research group, led by Prof. Marjan De Mey at the Centre for Synthetic Biology and located at the UGent Faculty of Bioscience engineering, are looking to recruit 1 junior postdoctoral researcher within the frame of a collaborative project.

The Goossens lab focuses on the characterization of plant signaling networks that steer plant specialized metabolism within tightly regulated fitness programs, in particular those modulated by stress hormones. Their findings aim to unlock plant specialized metabolism for numerous human applications given these serve as a novel resource for engineering tools that will facilitate 1) the creation of (plant-based) synthetic biology platforms for the sustainable production of high-value plant metabolites and 2) increased crop productivity by improvement of plant fitness in a changing environment. The research of the De Mey lab is situated at the forefront of industrial biotechnology, metabolic engineering and synthetic biology. They focus on the development of standardized, automatable, and generic tools and technologies and the creation of fundamental knowledge on key metabolic processes, envisioning a considerable reduction in the cost of biotechnological production processes and the acceleration of their development. 

Job description

The research is a collaborative effort between both labs to explore plant-fungi interactions mediated by specialized metabolites. Beyond their role in chemical communication, these metabolites hold significant potential for applications in agriculture and human health. However, many remain undiscovered, as their biosynthesis is often inactive under laboratory conditions. Our goal is to uncover these novel metabolites using metabolomics and synthetic biology. This will involve advanced technologies such as (un)targeted metabolite profiling, bioactivity assays, and CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing in fungi to identify and characterize these compounds. Additionally, microbial cell factories will be engineered for metabolite production through pathway engineering and dynamic pathway control. The postdoctoral scientist will occupy a key position in the collaborative project, being (1) responsible to launch and conduct groundbreaking science within the project, (2) active at both the partners labs and (3) involved in the mentoring of PhD students co-hired on the project.

For this exciting project, we seek talented and motivated candidates with experience in fungal biochemistry, molecular biology, and/or biotechnology. A strong interest and hands-on experience in microbial metabolism, metabolomics, and/or synthetic biology are highly desirable. We offer a competitive international research environment with access to cutting-edge infrastructure and services.

Profile

Essential 

• You have a Ph.D. degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Bio-engineering, Plant Biotechnology, Microbiology or equivalent
• You have maximum 3 years of postdoctoral research experience
• You’re fascinated by the organization of metabolism in plants and/ or microbes, metabolites and/or synthetic biology
• You can plan and conduct research independently and accurately
• You can take initiative, function well in a team, breath enthusiasm and have a hands-on mentality, perseverance and critical mind-set
• You have excellent interpersonal skills, to work effectively with team members from different backgrounds and in different research areas
• Proficient use of the English language for both oral and written communication is a must

Desirable

• International experience from PhD and/or postdoc research in plant or microbial metabolism, metabolomics, and/or synthetic biology is an asset, as well as a publication record in peer-reviewed journals showing expertise in these areas.
• Experience in guidance of master and/or PhD students is an asset.

We offer

• A full time competitive salary for a postdoc position for 3 years, according to the Belgian law, with possibilities to extend beyond that term
• An exciting and innovative project embedded in a multidisciplinary consortium
• Access to state-of-the art tools and infrastructure within an excellence-based academic research institute
• A stimulating and supportive international research environment
• Various training opportunities to broaden your expertise and skills, including training and mentoring in scientific writing
• Opportunities to attend scientific conferences and workshops

How to apply?

If you are interested in discovering and studying novel bioactive fungal metabolites, please apply online via the VIB application tool (applications by email will not be considered).

Please include a single pdf in your application that combines the following elements:
• a detailed CV (including publication list if applicable)
• a one-page summary of past research activities (particularly in your PhD project)
• a letter describing your fascination for the topic and the Goossens/De Mey labs
• the contact information of two referees

The first review of applications will start immediately. A shortlist of applicants will be selected and invited for interviews.

The position is available from June 2025 onwards. Applications are welcome until the position is filled.

The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology aims to gain insight into how plants grow and respond to their environment. Its scientists study how leaves and roots are formed, which microorganisms live on and around the plant, and which substances plants produce. They map the genetic diversity of the plant kingdom. This knowledge can lead to sustainable innovations in agriculture and food.

As a Greenhouse Logistics Assistant, you will work together with a team to maintain a clean and well-organized greenhouse facility. You will help ensure materials can be reused and support the daily care of our plants. Your tasks will include:

• Washing greenhouse materials such as pots, racks, and tools
• Processing and steaming waste and residual materials
• Carrying out simple treatments on plants (such as spraying, checking for diseases, and moving plants)
• Supporting logistical operations in the greenhouse (such as managing material inventory)

Profile

Essential

• You have a secondary education diploma (a diploma in Horticulture is a plus, but not required)
• You are motivated and eager to learn
• You have an interest in horticulture, plants, or greenhouse cultivation
• You work in a clean and structured manner and take initiative
• You are physically fit and not afraid of hands-on work
• Experience in a similar role is a plus, but not a requirement
• Willingness to obtain a phytolicense
• You can work independently, but also function well in a team
• You have a good command of Dutch; English is a plus

Desirable but not required

• Diploma in Horticulture is a plus
• You have a good command of English

We offer

• A green and dynamic working environment
• A varied role with room for personal initiative
• A fun and collegial team
• Competitive salary and good working conditions

How to apply?

Motivated candidates are asked to apply online no later than 26 May 2025. For more info you can contact Nico Smet. 

We are looking for a highly motivated and talented electromechanical engineer to join our team at the VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology. The selected candidate will join the motivated international team of the Nelissen lab and will work alongside scientists to maintain hardware and software of phenotyping robots.

This role involves working closely with the other members of the team on different projects related to phenotyping. Therefore, we require a team player who also possesses the ability to work independently. The ideal candidate will have a background in electromechanics, engineering and building and maintaining machines and automation, preferentially with experience in plant biology.

Job description

• Maintenance of automated phenotyping systems, containing conveyer belts or gripper, pumps, camera systems
• Daily monitoring of the different automated systems
• Troubleshooting and resolve technical issues
• Make the system as user-friendly as possible
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of system logs
• Design and programming of the software
• Communicate with scientists to facilitate the experimental setup and measurements
• Discuss with purchasers
• Follow-up, testing and start-up of projects
• Contribute to a collaborative and productive team environment, participating in regular team meetings and discussions
• Adapt to the dynamic needs of the project, demonstrating flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Help with general lab duties

Profile

Essential

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in electromechanical engineering
• Fluent in English, for both written and oral communication
• Experience in PLC programming
• Knowledge of working in a lab 
• Enthusiastic team player
• Basic understanding of plant biology

Desirable but not required

• Experience in plant biology and/or greenhouse management
• Knowledgeable RGB, thermal and hyperspectral camera’s
• Interest in image-based plant phenotyping

Key personal characteristics

• You are enthusiastic and curious about scientific research
• You like learning new techniques 
• You are willing to participate in the general lab organization
• You can work well in a team and independently
• You are accurate and critical of your work and its implementation
• You have a strong ability to multi-task and meet deadlines
• You enjoy other cultures and are respectful of others and their different ideas/opinions

We offer

• The ability to work on scientifically exceptional and high impact research topics
• Full-time appointment as a laboratory technician at VIB/UGent, a highly ranked research institute with a competitive pay scale and benefits (health insurance, sports facilities)
• A stimulating and supportive international research environment (with English as main language)
• State-of-the-art infrastructure
• A varied work schedule, with significant autonomy over how you plan your day
• An immediately available job, starting date is negotiable
• Various training opportunities to broaden your skills

How to apply?

Motivated candidates are asked to apply online. Additional requirements:

• Please upload your full CV
• Please upload a motivation letter
• Please add the contact details of at least two references