Researcher in Cancer Biology

University of Luxemburg

Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract
Duration: 24 Month

About the FSTM

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) at the University of Luxembourg contributes multidisciplinary expertise in the fields of Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Life Sciences and Medicine. Through its dual mission of teaching and research, the FSTM seeks to generate and disseminate knowledge and train new generations of responsible citizens in order to better understand, explain and advance society and environment we live in.

Your role

Our collaborative group, composed of the MDM group at the University of Luxembourg, led by Prof. Letellier and the laboratory of Prof. Tejpar at the KU Leuven, investigates stromal–epithelial crosstalk in colorectal cancer initiation, progression and therapy resistance. Using state-of-the-art single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) and spatial transcriptomics on CRC patient samples, we have identified novel epithelial cell states and distinct cancer-associated fibroblast subpopulations.

The primary research focus will be to define how fibroblasts from healthy colon tissue transition into distinct CAF subtypes and how these subtypes regulate epithelial plasticity and immune responses, promoting tumor progression and therapy resistance. This work will integrate spatial transcriptomics, advanced co-culture organoid assays, and in vivo models to decode the mechanisms underlying CAF-driven CRC evolution. Access to single cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics data from active clinical trials through the group of Prof. Tejpar will put the postdoc in an ideal position to understand how the stromal interactions change under current novel treatments and could be harnessed as future therapies.

The postdoctoral fellow will work jointly between the University of Luxembourg and the KU Leuven, benefiting from a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment, and contributing to the TARGET-SEC project’s overarching goal of identifying novel therapeutic strategies targeting pro-tumorigenic stroma–epithelial interactions in CRC.

The person will focus on applying innovative bioinformatics approaches to human-relevant models and unique patient-derived tissue cohorts from colorectal cancer. The aim is to dissect the tumor “ecosystem” with a particular emphasis on epithelial cells, cancer-associated fibroblasts and immune cells, and to comprehensively profile their phenotypic and functional heterogeneity, lineage plasticity, and evolutionary dynamics.

For all in vitro and in vivo experiments, the Postdoctoral Fellow will be supported by a dedicated technician, who will be recruited concurrently for this project.

Tasks

  • Coordinate experiments for the TARGET-SEQ project

  • Conduct bioinformatics analysis and implement new tools

  • Collect, interpret, and analyse research related data and results

  • Ensure proper scientific documentation

  • Document performed experiments and analyses in a lab book

  • Participate and present obtained data in bi-monthly consortium meetings

  • Present the data in scientific publications

  • Contribute to general tasks in the laboratory

Your profile

  • PhD in Biological Sciences, Data Science, Computational Biology, or a related discipline

  • Preferably with prior professional experience as a Postdoctoral Researcher

  • Strong computational background with proficiency in R and at least one additional scripting language

  • Solid knowledge of biostatistics

  • Experience with single-cell sequencing data and preferentially with spatial omics

  • Working in high-performance computing environments is highly preferred

  • Good understanding of cancer biology, immunology, cell biology, and molecular biology is required

  • Proven track record of peer-reviewed publications

  • Excellent spoken and written communication skills

  • Strong organizational skills

  • Proficiency in written and spoken English is required

We offer

  • Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the “University of the Greater Region” (UniGR)

  • A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure

  • A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Applications should include:

  • Curriculum Vitae

  • Cover letter

  • The name and contact details of at least two referees

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information

  • Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 24 Month

  • Preferred Start Date: 01.01.2026

  • Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week

  • Location: Belval Campus

  • Internal Title: Postdoctoral researcher

  • Job Reference: UOL07720

The yearly gross salary for every Postdoctoral Researcher at the UL is EUR 85,176 (full time).

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