PhD Position in mRNA-LNP Analytics – Department of Pharmaceutics, Ghent University Ghent University in Belgium

This PhD position at Ghent University’s Department of Pharmaceutics offers an exciting opportunity to join the Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines, focusing on the analytics of mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (LNP) therapeutics in biological contexts. The project is a collaborative doctoral partnership with the Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission, aiming to advance the development and regulatory science of innovative health biotechnological drugs, particularly mRNA therapeutics.

The research will address the challenges of physico-chemical characterization of mRNA-LNPs, which are in late-phase clinical trials as Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs). The doctoral fellow will develop advanced analytical tools to better understand the stability of mRNA-LNPs in biological media, contributing to the faster translation of health biotechnologies from laboratory to market. The project is multidisciplinary, involving pharmaceutical sciences, analytical chemistry, biotechnology, and regulatory science.

The doctoral training program spans four years, with two years at Ghent University (Belgium) and two years at the JRC in Ispra, Italy. During the JRC stay, the student will be employed as a Grantholder Category 20, with employment terms governed by JRC and national regulations. The position is fully funded, covering salary and employment benefits for up to 48 months, subject to positive evaluations.

Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical sciences, or bioengineering sciences, and demonstrate strong English communication skills. Eligibility is limited to nationals or long-term residents of EU Member States or associated countries. The selection process includes a CV-based preselection at Ghent University, followed by a CV and interview-based selection at the JRC. Medical fitness and compliance with EU and national regulations are required.

The successful candidate will conduct experimental research, present results at conferences, write scientific papers, and contribute to departmental activities such as supervising internships and master’s students. The position offers a dynamic, collaborative, and multidisciplinary research environment, with the opportunity to work at the interface of academia and European policy-making.

For more information, contact Prof. Ine Lentacker or Dr. Rein Verbeke. Applications should be submitted via the provided application link before the deadline of March 24, 2026.