PhD Position

Cellular and development biology

Genome and proteome integrity are crucial for proper embryo development, but how both are monitored across lineage specification remains an open question. We have recently identified that morphogenetic and patterning signals regulate DNA replication dynamics and chromosome segregation fidelity in a lineage-specific manner (De Jaime-Soguero et al. Nature Communications, 2024; PMID 39191776). These findings suggest that specific lineages respond and mitigate differently replicative stress. We seek a motivated doctoral researcher to investigate how embryo lineages mitigate other stress sources –namely those threatening protein homeostasis (heat shock stress, ER stress, oxidative stress)– and how they impact in genome integrity. Our recently formed group (Developmental Resilience lab, https://www.iribhm.org/research-labs/ade-jaime-soguero) has expertise in cellular signaling and quantification of genome stability, pluripotency and early lineage specification in 2D, novel 3D stem cell-based embryo models and ex vivo mouse embryo experimentation. We collaborate with Isabelle Migeotte lab, which has long-standing expertise in gastrulation and whole-embryo live imaging, and with OMIC experts at IRIBHM and Gene Core (EMBL).

Qualification profile

You have recently graduated as a MSc in Life Sciences or Bioinformatics, and have a strong interest in molecular, cell, developmental biology. Experience with cloning and/or R coding for bioinformatic analysis is a plus. You have strong analytical and communication skills, are enthusiastic and critical thinker. Fluency in English is required, as well as to be able to work well in an international environment. MSc grades will be taken in account during the selection.

We offer

A 2-year full time PhD contract with the possibility of extension. The candidate is expected to apply for PhD fellowship programs under the support of IRIBHM. Our laboratory offers: i) a healthy vibrant lab culture and lively international environment, with English as working language, ii) access to advanced training in scientific and professional skills, iii) supervision and support tailored to your career perspectives, iv) access to state-of-the-art core facilities at ULB (microscopy, flow cytometry, sequencing) and v) interdisciplinary collaborations.

Why to join IRIBHM and come to live in Brussels?

IRIBHM-J.E. Dumont is a multidisciplinary research institute at the Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB, Belgium) with a focus in signal transduction, development, neuroscience, cancer and computational biology (https://iribhm.org). At the heart of Europe, Brussels is the largest student city in Belgium welcoming 160 different nationalities, a vibrant, tolerant and international capital.

How to apply:

Send your application to Anchel de Jaime-Soguero (dejaimesoguerolab@gmail.com), with the subject lane: De Jaime-Soguero lab PhD application. Attach: (1) Your BSc and MSc transcripts, (2) a detailed CV, (3) the contact information of two previous mentors/supervisors, and (4) a cover letter stating your personal interest in our lab and project. Or by: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/node/361351/latest.

Selected candidates will be invited for an online interview. Applications sent after 30th of August 2025 will not be considered. The starting date expected is 1st November 2025.