•You are about to receive/hold a Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biosciences, (Bio-) medical Sciences, Bioscience engineering, Pharmacy or equivalent.•You have a passion for experimental research with genuine interest in science at the intersection of diverse disciplines (biotechnology, pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences).•Experience with techniques such as cell culture, immunohistochemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology (qPCR, Western blot, cloning) is highly desirable. Previous in vivo experience is an asset.•Knowledge of or background in gene therapy and/or experience working with viral vectors is a strong advantage.•You are motivated to work in a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment with flexibility to perform experimental research at both collaborating research groups.•You have good communication skills and a strong command of English, both written and spoken.•International working experience is appreciated.
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the leading genetic cause of end-stage kidney disease, affecting over 12 million patients worldwide. Loss-of-function mutations in PKD1 (accounting for ~75% of cases) lead to progressive bilateral cyst formation in renal tubular epithelium, resulting in end-stage kidney disease by age 60 in approximately 50% of patients. Currently, there is no cure for ADPKD. Gene therapy based on adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) holds the promise of offering a long-term curative approach for ADPKD.
In this project, the PhD researcher will develop an AAV-mediated gene therapy for ADPKD by using patient-derived cyst-forming cellular assays and animal models. By integrating advanced molecular techniques with translational in vitro and in vivo systems, the project aims to establish a robust preclinical foundation for further clinical development.
The position is available from September 2026 onwards.
This project is part of a collaboration between the Trellis Research Group and the PKD Research Group.Trellis, headed by prof. Els Henckaerts, is a pioneering lab that works on the cutting edge of AAV biology research and translational science to develop novel AAV-based gene therapies for the clinic. The PKD Research Group is a multidisciplinary team bridging the gap between preclinical science and clinical practice. They are dedicated to unraveling the molecular drivers of ADPKD to accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets. We offer a PhD position with flexible starting date in a stimulating, interdisciplinary and highly translational research environment at KU Leuven. You will get the opportunity to work in state-of-the-art research facilities that nurture novel research initiatives. You will gain in-depth knowledge of gene therapy research and the associated development process, as well as disease-relevant validation tools and clinical insights. As part of the project, the PhD candidate is expected to apply for a competitive personal fellowship (e.g. an FWO PhD fellowship), with strong support from the supervisors in proposal development and grant writing.