Research expert specialized in multi-omics data generation, integration, and biological analysis

As research expert in multi-omics your main task is to initiate and guide studies that generate and integrate multiple biological data layers such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. Lead and advise on data integration strategies, with a primary focus on AI-driven multi-modal integration architectures to derive meaningful biological insights. You will also take the lead in technology innovation projects by managing these projects and coordinating the various contributors and stakeholders.

• Ensure that research questions are biologically relevant and that the selected omics approaches are aligned with the study's scientific and potentially clinical/industry objectives.
• Create rich datasets suitable for mechanistic discoveries using novel deep learning architectures.
• Lead and supervise research projects through the whole process, from experimental design, sample selection, and implementation of appropriate multi-omics data integration and analysis methodologies.
• A central part of your role is to interpret complex analytical results and translate them into coherent biological mechanisms.
• Facilitate communication and collaboration among interdisciplinary research teams, acting as a bridge between biologists, clinicians, and data scientists to ensure effective collaboration and impactful outcomes.
• Disseminate the research findings through publications, presentations at conferences, and engagement with the academic community.
• Actively seek funding opportunities, develop and write grant applications.
• Establish technology co-development efforts with relevant industrial partners.
• Provide expert consultancy for industrial partners on the application and implementation of in-house (co-)developed technologies.
• Stay informed on the latest developments in the multi-omics field to make sure the approaches used in new projects stay state of the art., 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.

We seek a highly motivated, dynamic candidate with strong problem-solving skills who can initiate and lead technology innovation projects, coordinating across multiple laboratories specializing in diverse omics technologies, including spatial transcriptomics, lipidomics, proteomics, and functional genomics. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in both wet-lab experimentation and computational methods for processing and analyzing complex datasets to uncover new biological insights., * You hold a PhD in Life Sciences, Bioinformatics, Engineering.

• You have at least 6 years of postdoctoral experience, with expertise in (multi)-omics, functional genomics and large-scale data analysis.
• You have a strong interest in gaining mechanistic insight into cellular and molecular processes within a multidisciplinary research environment.
• You have wet-lab experience, performing and optimizing molecular biology protocols. (e.g. cloning, genetics, DNA/RNA extraction, cell culture)
• You are experienced in analyzing complex datasets, utilizing machine learning (AI) and other state of the art bioinformatic tools.
• You are experienced in leading and managing technology innovation projects, coordinating multidisciplinary collaboration between different research teams.
• You have an established track record in your field, reflected by high-impact first- or last-author publications and presentations at international conferences.
• You have obtained competitive (European) funding for your own fellowships or projects.
• You must have clear, open communication skills, and are willing to support the other scientists of the team, coming from different background such as (bio)medical science, (computer) engineering and biologists.
• You are fluent in English, both oral and written.
• You can handle stressful situations, are adaptable and can manage a team of scientists to drive innovative projects.

Offer

• A friendly, dynamic and scientifically stimulating working environment, with a team of highly motivated international scientists.
• A fulltime permanent position as a research expert. The salary will be determined based on qualifications and years of relevant experience in accordance with KU Leuven regulations.
• The responsibility to initiate and work on scientifically exceptional and high impact, state-of-the art projects in a cross lab collaborative environment.

* The KU Leuven is one of the most innovative universities in Europe. Leuven is located 20 minutes from Brussel in the center of Europe.