PhD Position in Structural Biology of Kinases Using Cryo-EM

VIB Center for Structural Biology (VIB-CSB) Vrije Universiteit Brussel Belgium

We are seeking an outstanding and ambitious PhD candidate to join the Efremov Lab at the VIB Center for Structural Biology (VIB-CSB) as part of the newly funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network ANA-KIN.

This position offers a unique opportunity to investigate the structural mechanisms that regulate protein kinase function combining state-of-the-art cryo-electron microscopy protein biochemistry and molecular biology within a highly international and interdisciplinary research environment.

The successful candidate will work at the forefront of structural biology and drug discovery addressing fundamental questions with direct relevance to human health and next-generation therapeutics.

The VIB Center for Structural Biology (CSB) is an internationally recognized research institute dedicated to understanding the structure dynamics and function of macromolecular complexes involved in health and disease.

VIB combines excellence in fundamental research with exceptional opportunities for innovation and technology transfer. The center is located on the campus of Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Brussels one of Europes most international and vibrant cities.

The Efremov Lab investigates the structure and dynamics of membrane protein complexes and develops innovative methodologies for cryo-EM sample preparation. The lab has direct access to the Brussels Electron Microscopy Center (BECM) a world-class cryo-EM facility equipped with cutting-edge instrumentation for both single-particle analysis and cryo-electron tomography.

• VIB-CSB:
• BECM:

Protein kinases control nearly every aspect of cellular signaling and are among the most important targets in modern medicine. Despite major advances in kinase inhibitor development many regulatory mechanisms remain poorly understood particularly those involving allosteric and non-catalytic interfaces.
As a member of the ANA-KIN Doctoral Network the PhD candidate will investigate kinase structure dynamics and regulation using advanced structural biology approaches with a particular emphasis on cryo-EM.

The project will involve:

• Structural characterization of kinase complexes using cryo-EM
• Protein expression purification and biochemical characterization
• Investigation of kinase conformational landscapes and regulatory mechanisms
• Integration of structural and functional data to uncover novel regulatory interfaces
• Collaboration with leading academic and industrial partners across Europe

This project offers the opportunity to generate fundamental insights into kinase biology while contributing to future therapeutic strategies.
About ANA-KIN

ANA-KIN is a European Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network bringing together leading groups in structural biology chemical biology computational biology drug discovery and cell biology.
Doctoral candidates will benefit from:

• International secondments at partner institutions
• Exposure to both academic and industrial research environments
• Advanced technical and scientific training
• Network-wide workshops and conferences
• Transferable-skills training in communication leadership entrepreneurship and innovation
• A highly collaborative and multidisciplinary research community

Applicants of any nationality are welcome.

In accordance with Marie Skłodowska-Curie mobility rules applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work studies etc.) in Belgium for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately preceding the recruitment date.

We are looking for a scientifically curious intellectually ambitious and highly independent researcher who is excited by challenging biological questions and cutting-edge technology.
Essential qualifications

• Masters degree (or equivalent) in Structural Biology Biochemistry Molecular Biology Biophysics Biotechnology or a related field
• Strong academic record
• Practical experience in at least one of the following:
  • Cryo-electron microscopy
  • Protein biochemistry and purification
  • Kinase biology
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication skills in English
• Ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team

Particularly attractive qualifications

• Prior research experience in structural biology
• Experience with cryo-EM data collection and/or image processing
• Experience in protein expression and purification
• Knowledge of kinase signaling and regulation
• Evidence of research excellence such as publications conference presentations research awards or exceptional Masters research

• A fully funded PhD position within a prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network
• Access to world-class cryo-EM infrastructure and expertise
• Close mentorship in a dynamic and internationally recognized research environment
• Extensive international training and networking opportunities
• Collaborations with leading laboratories and biotechnology/pharmaceutical partners across Europe
• Competitive MSCA salary including mobility family (where applicable) and travel allowances
• The opportunity to contribute to high-impact research at the forefront of kinase biology and structural biology

Please submit:

• A concise curriculum vitae
• A brief statement of motivation outlining your research interests and suitability for the position
• Contact details of at least two referees

15 September 2026
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and the position may be filled earlier if an exceptional candidate is identified.

1 December 2026