(Associate) scientist translation research - Single-cell omics & AI

Duration: 1-year fulltime contract l Location: hybrid (Ghent, Leuven) 

Key words: Single-cell omics, AI, Virtual Cell, Gene Regulatory Networks, Valorization 

VIB  is a world-class life sciences research institute in Flanders, Belgium, with more than 2,000 scientists across four universities and a strong track record of translating scientific breakthroughs into impactful biotechnology innovation and venture creation.  

This role sits within VIB Innovation & Business – AI Studio , a growing team that turns VIB’s biological data and AI expertise into trustworthy, reproducible digital assets that accelerate innovation in healthcare and biotechnology through validation, engineering, and valorization pathways such as licensing, partnerships, and spin‑outs. 

We are seeking a Computational Biology Scientist in Single-cell omics & AI to support the valorization trajectory of a computational platform combining single‑cell omics, AI machine learning, and translational biology. The role involves collaboration with academic research group(s), with a strong focus on bridging advanced computational methods to biologically meaningful outcomes. The successful candidate will contribute to the application, evaluation, and interpretation of AI models on single-cell biological datasets, while keeping downstream translation and valorization potential in clear focus. 

• Apply and evaluate advanced machine‑learning approaches on single‑cell and gene regulatory data to extract biologically relevant signals and propose meaningful and testable hypotheses, grounded in disease biology. 
• Perform end‑to‑end processing, quality control, integration, and analysis of single‑cell and multimodal omics datasets (e.g. scRNA‑seq, scATAC‑seq). 
• Train, evaluate, and benchmark deep learning models operating on single‑cell, regulatory, or multimodal biological data. 
• Support target and mechanism prioritization by integrating model predictions with biological knowledge and external data sources. 
• Work closely with academic partner groups and the Innovation & Business (I&B) team to align technical development with biological relevance and translational objectives. 
• Contribute to discussions on valorization pathways, including positioning of results for partnerships, licensing, or venture creation. 

• PhD (or equivalent experience) in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Systems Biology, Machine Learning, or a related field. 
• Strong hands‑on experience with single‑cell omics analysis, particularly scRNA‑seq and/or scATAC‑seq. 
• Practical experience applying machine learning or deep learning methods to biological data. 
• Proficient in Python, with working knowledge of bash and experience using HPC or cluster environments (e.g. SLURM). 
• A pragmatic scientist who combines technical depth with a clear translational, goal‑oriented mindset. 
• Ability to critically interpret computational and bioinformatics outputs in a biological and disease‑relevant context. 
• Curious, proactive, and motivated to operate at the interface of research, innovation, and valorization. 

Desirable / Plus 

• Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch, TensorFlow) in a research context. 
• Industry experience in pharma and/or biotech, particularly in translational research, data‑driven discovery, or applied computational biology. 
• Knowledge of DevOps practices, software testing, or reproducible workflow development. 

• A 1-year full‑time position with a flexible hybrid onsite/remote working model, combining time at VIB headquarters in Ghent and academic groups at VIB’s Research Centers. 
• A unique opportunity to help shape a cutting‑edge, AI‑driven biology platform with direct exposure to real‑world translational and valorization activities. 
• A comprehensive social security package, including pension scheme and health care coverage. 
• Strong support for lifelong learning, with access to VIB’s personal and professional development programs. 

Motivated candidates can apply via the online VIB application form (https://jobs.vib.be/apply/132752 ). The application (in English) should consist of: 

• Cover/motivation letter  
• CV  

More info:

https://vib.be/en/ai-studio
https://vib.be/