AdresseA Research Manager position is available in the team of Prof. Stein Aerts at the Center of Human Genetics, KU Leuven and VIB Center for AI & Computational Biology and VIB Center for Brain & Disease Research. The Laboratory of Computational Biology is focusing on decoding the genomic regulatory code and understanding how genomic regulatory programs drive dynamic changes in cellular states, both in normal and disease processes. The lab has extensive experience in designing and testing genomic enhancers to target transgenes to specific cell types in various model organisms. To support this work, and the implementation of novel tools/management systems in the lab, the group is seeking a motivated Research Manager with knowledge of Synthetic Enhancers and a technical mindset to translate ideas into effective actions.
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Responsibilities
The role of the Research Manager encompasses high-level management of various tasks to facilitate successful progress and timely completion of research objectives and projects. This includes overseeing technological advancements, promoting collaborative research, securing external funding, and handling dissemination, networking, and administrative responsibilities.
- Lead and supervise research projects through the whole process of enhancer discovery, from initial cell type characterization to in vivo validation of Synthetic Enhancers, ensuring their timely and successful completion.
- Manage a team of PhD students and lab technicians, providing guidance, support, and fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.
- Maintain a close collaboration with dry lab scientists to produce data essential for training enhancer models and validating targets.
- Effectively manage research budgets, allocate resources efficiently, and seek external funding opportunities to support ongoing and future projects.
- Foster collaborations with internal and external stakeholders, including industry partners to enhance the impact of the research outcomes.
- Monitor and assess the potential for valorization in projects, translating these insights into effective actions in coordination with the valorization manager both at KU Leuven and VIB.
- Facilitate the dissemination of research findings through publications, presentations at conferences, and engagement with the academic community.
Profile
- PhD in cellular and molecular biology with a minimum of 5-6 years post-doc experience in functional genomics work.
- Hands-on experience with various enhancer screening methods, such as massively parallel reporter assays, luciferase assays, DNA affinity purification, and single-cell CRISPR screening.
- Practical experience in cell culture, molecular biology and viral production.
- Experience with single-cell technologies, including sc/snRNAseq, scATACseq, multiome. Ability to design experiments for high-throughput samples to generate single-cell multi-omic atlases.
- Knowledge of data analysis techniques commonly used in functional biology research and single-cell analysis. Proficiency in programming languages (R, python and bash) is considered an asset.
- Lab management skills, including ability to write protocols/SOPs and organization of laboratory activities.
- Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and teams effectively. Strong attention to detail and a proactive approach in identifying and resolving challenges.
- Outstanding abilities in communication, networking and negotiation, enabling effective collaboration with researchers, administrators, and external partners. Proven experience with industry partners is considered an asset.
- Fluency in English (verbally and in writing) is mandatory.
Offer
- An opportunity to work in a world-class research environment operating at an international level, and various opportunities to broaden your expertise.
- A state-of-the-art laboratory environment.
- A compensation package based on expertise and experience.
- A fulltime contract of indefinite duration
- An extensive network of (inter)national contacts.
Interested?
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.
