A research manager position is available in the team of Prof. Vermeesch at the Center of Human Genetics, KU Leuven. Prof. Vermeesch is leading the Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Genome research, is a staff member of the Centre for Human Genetics and has, as head and founder of the Genomics Core at KU/UZ Leuven, extensive experience in developing and operating thriving genomics programs. With a 10 year-experience in liquid biopsy field, his team has developed multiple breakthrough technologies for cfDNA analysis. His lab being among the first to develop and implement non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) in a clinical setting in Europe, succeeded in improving the diagnostic workflows in prenatal and postnatal diagnosis in all genetic centers. Moreover, the lab has extensive experience in development and implementation of novel (diagnostic/screening) technologies in reproductive medicine and oncology field. The group is seeking for a motivated research manager to lead and translate research and ideas in the field of liquid biopsies.
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 and supervision of PhD students.
Specifically, you will:
- Lead and supervise research projects through the whole process, 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.
- 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 of the group.
- Facilitate the dissemination of research findings through publications, presentations at conferences, and engagement with the academic community.
Profile
- PhD in genetics or molecular biology with a minimum of 5-6 years post-doc experience in biological, biomedical or bio-engineering sciences, experience in strategic research management is an asset.
- Experience in human genomics and/or oncology.
- Experience with next- or third-generation sequencing technologies. Ability to design experiments, develop or optimize protocols.
- Knowledge of data analysis techniques commonly used in genomic research. Proficiency in programming languages (R, python and bash) is considered as 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 projects 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.
- Experience with writing grant applications and project budgets.
- Strategic and entrepreneurial mindset.
- Dedicated team player and team-/project lead.
- 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 (part-time (80%) negotiable) contract of indefinite duration
- An extensive network of (inter)national contacts.
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Joris Vermeesch, mail: joris.vermeesch@kuleuven.be.
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