Postdoc – Viral Vector Technology & Advanced Bioprocess Development
The Gijsbers Lab (Laboratory Molecular Vectorology and Gene Therapy) is part of ADVANTAGE labs in the group Biomedical Sciences at KU Leuven. We advance viral vector engineering and bioprocess development for rare disease modelling and gene therapy.
Our project will deliver a standardized, distribution‑ready viral vector toolbox targeting Parkinson’s disease genes, supporting knockdown, knockout and overexpression strategies with lentiviral, rAAV and VLP‑CRISPR vectors.
Responsibilities
* Lead viral vector design, development and production workflows within LMVGT.
* Perform wet‑lab experimental work, from molecular design to QC, scale‑up and process modelling.
* Coordinate with the Leuven Viral Vector Core and partner laboratories, acting as the central communication node.
* Oversee operational and scientific progress, ensure timely delivery of milestones, open‑science compliance and reporting.
* Manage project timelines, prepare updates and present scientific progress to consortium partners.
* Maintain meticulous documentation of decisions, action items and project activities.
* Generate proposals to resolve technical hurdles and assist in annual scientific and financial reports.
* Ensure compliance with internal and ASAP project guidelines on open access, data traceability, ethics and standard operating procedures.
* Implement strategies to achieve project objectives and support FAIR data management and sharing.
Profile
Research & Technical Skills
* PhD in biotechnology, biomedical sciences, bioscience engineering or a related discipline.
* Experience in viral vector technology, bioprocess development/scaling/QC and neuroscience is an asset.
* Demonstrated experience with FAIR data storage and sharing (e.g., protocols.io, Zenodo).
Soft Skills
* Outstanding organisational and communication abilities.
* Strong problem‑solving skills, ability to manage multiple workflows.
* Efficiency in a fast‑paced, collaborative, multidisciplinary research environment.
Offer
This role is a fully funded, full‑time FTE position associated with an international ASAP grant cycle beginning in Q2 2026. Salary commensurate with experience and aligned with KU Leuven regulations.
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. Dr. Rik Gijsbers, rik.gijsbers@kuleuven.be.
Job Details
Closing date: 2026‑05‑15.
KU Leuven adheres to equal‑opportunity employment and embraces diversity. We do not accept discrimination.
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