Ghent University invites applications for a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, focusing on cutting-edge HIV cure research at the HIV Cure Research Center (HCRC). Led by Prof. Dr. Linos Vandekerckhove and Prof. Dr. Sarah Gerlo, the HCRC is internationally recognized for its translational research, integrating clinical samples, in vitro and in vivo model systems, and computational approaches to address the global challenge of HIV persistence. The center’s multidisciplinary team collaborates with leading universities and biotech companies, aiming to develop innovative strategies for eradicating HIV reservoirs and advancing clinical trials.

The PhD project centers on the analysis of multi-omics bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomic data from tissue samples of people living with HIV (PLWH). The successful candidate will design and implement new bioinformatic pipelines, integrating diverse data layers to uncover mechanisms underlying HIV persistence in ART-treated individuals. This research is highly interdisciplinary, combining experimental and computational biology, and offers opportunities to contribute to both fundamental science and clinical innovation.

Applicants should hold or be about to obtain a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Bioinformatics, Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Life Sciences, Biology, Mathematics, or Engineering Sciences. Final-year students are welcome to apply. Essential skills include bioinformatics expertise, proficiency in programming languages (R, Python, Bash), and experience with sequencing data analysis. Additional experience with wet lab techniques (flow cytometry, PCR) is advantageous but not required. Candidates must demonstrate strong motivation, analytical and problem-solving abilities, excellent English communication skills, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively in diverse teams. International collaboration and short research stays abroad may be part of the fellowship.

The position offers a full-time contract for an initial period of 22 months, extendable up to 48 months upon positive evaluation. The fellowship provides 100% of the net salary of an AAP member, with the amount determined by family status and seniority, and is exempt from personal income tax. If a competitive FWO PhD grant is not secured, alternative funding will be considered. Ghent University staff enjoy extensive benefits, including training opportunities, generous holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

To apply, candidates should submit a CV (with percentile ranking), motivation letter, degree certificates and transcripts, translation of diplomas if necessary, details of previous research experience and publications, and contact information for 1–2 references to Prof. Dr. Sarah Gerlo or Prof. Dr. Linos Vandekerckhove. For further information, Dr. Jolien Vermeire can be contacted. Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply. The application deadline is February 7, 2026, with the earliest contract start date on September 1, 2026.