Are you passionate about virology and innovative research? The Laboratory of Virology and Antiviral Research at the KU Leuven Rega Institute is currently seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join their team in the quest to develop new antiviral strategies.
PhD Position: Antiviral Target Discovery at KU Leuven, Belgium
Summary
This PhD project focuses on accelerating the discovery of antiviral targets for entero- and rhinoviruses, which currently lack approved treatments. You will combine high-content imaging, Cell Painting profiling, and AI-driven data analysis to identify and validate host and viral factors essential for infection.
Position Details
| Detail | Information |
| Designation | PhD Candidate |
| Research Area | Virology, Antiviral Target Discovery |
| Location | Leuven, Belgium |
| Contract | Full-time, 4 years (renewable annually) |
| Last Date to Apply | August 6, 2026, 23:59 CET |
Job Description
The successful candidate will work within the Translational Platform for Virus, Vaccine and Cancer Research (TPVC), bridging fundamental science with clinical translation. Key responsibilities include:
- Leveraging high-content imaging and AI-driven analysis to perform phenotypic profiling.
- Conducting mechanism-of-action studies using advanced disease models, including 3D cell cultures.
- Utilizing integrated multi-omics and computational analysis to map virus-host interactions.
- Contributing to the development of next-generation antiviral strategies.
Eligibility & Qualifications
- Education: MSc in (molecular) biology, biomedical sciences, virology, bioengineering, or a related field (obtained less than 2 years ago).
- Skills: Proficiency in cell culture and molecular cloning is essential.
- Assets: Experience with fluorescence microscopy, reporter assays, or high-content imaging is highly valued.
- Computational Skills: Strong interest or experience in computational biology (R, Python, or image analysis pipelines) and omics approaches.
- Soft Skills: A critical scientific mindset, strong organizational skills, and proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Eligibility: Must be eligible for an FWO PhD fellowship.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit the following via the online application portal:
- Motivation Letter: Explain your research interests, relevant training, and why you are the best fit for this position.
- References: Provide the contact details of two referees.
For further inquiries, you may contact Hendrik Jan Thibaut at hendrikjan.thibaut@kuleuven.be.
