Postdoctoral Researcher

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 2025How 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.