Assistant position: human gut microbial ecology

The Lab of Microbial Systems Biology offers a PhD-level Assistant (doctor-assistent) position with a dual focus on teaching and research in the field of gut microbial ecology. The lab is part of the Molecular Bacteriology unit at the Rega Institute and uses systems biology methods to study microbial community structure and dynamics, with a particular focus on human gut microorganisms. We offer a friendly, inclusive and international environment as well as access to state-of-the-art anaerobic culturing equipment.

Website unit

Responsibilities

The successful applicant will design and implement or supervise experiments in controlled conditions to elucidate ecological interactions between human gut microorganisms. This will include establishing new equipment and technologies such as 13C isotope labeling. The applicant will also play an important role in teaching the Bacteriology practicals (Bachelor level) as part of a team. These practicals include exercises for students in dentistry (E05B8a) and pharmaceutical sciences (K07B7a) in the first semester and microbiology practicals (E06C4a and U08A8a) as well as bacteriology and antibiotics practicals (E0721a and U06C9a) in the second semester. In addition, the applicant is expected to help with day-to-day management of the lab.

Profile

The candidate should have a solid background in microbiology and molecular biology, be interested in microbial ecology, enjoy wet lab work, be able to work independently and be passionate about teaching. Since teaching will be conducted in Dutch, proficiency in this language is a requirement. In addition, since the lab has an international profile, the candidate has to be able to communicate well in English. Experience with anaerobic culturing techniques, flow cytometry or 16S rRNA gene sequencing are a plus. Applicants should have defended their PhD in September 2024 at the latest. 

Offer

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. Karoline Faust, mail: karoline.faust@kuleuven.be or Mrs. Annick De Troyer, mail: annick.detroyer@kuleuven.be.

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.