Doctoral Fellow in Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health – Laboratory of Virology Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University, one of Belgium’s leading research institutions, is offering a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health. The position is based in the Laboratory of Virology at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Merelbeke, under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Hans Nauwynck and Prof. Dr. Jolien Van Cleemput. The lab is renowned for its multidisciplinary research on viral diseases affecting both humans and animals, with a special focus on environmental stressors such as micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) and their impact on respiratory health.

This PhD project centers on the porcine respiratory disease complex, a major health and economic challenge for the swine industry. The research aims to unravel the complex interactions between pathogens, environmental stressors (notably MNPs), and host factors. You will investigate the presence, characteristics, and microbiome (plastisphere) of MNPs on pig farms, and study how these plastics and the respiratory microbiome influence health in pigs and humans. The project is situated at the interface of molecular virology, MNP characterization, microbiome research, and bioinformatics, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research at the intersection of animal health, environmental pollution, and zoonotic disease.

As a doctoral fellow, you will collect samples on pig farms, isolate and culture primary respiratory epithelial cells, and analyze transcriptomic, RNA-sequencing, and microbiome datasets. Advanced laboratory techniques such as (RT-)qPCR, virus titration, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, nanopore sequencing, fluorescence and confocal microscopy, and bioinformatics tools (R, Python) will be employed. The position is ideal for candidates with a strong interest in virology, molecular biology, and environmental health.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (preferably) in bio-medical sciences, bio-technology, bio-engineering, pharmaceutical sciences, human medicine, veterinarian medicine or biology. Experience with laboratory work related to virology, biology, plastics research, and/or bioinformatics is required. Strong interest in molecular techniques, cell culture, virological assays, DNA and RNA manipulations, and data analysis is expected. Preferably, candidates hold a valid category B driving licence and can communicate in Dutch. Candidates should be eager to learn and able to independently plan and conduct experiments after initial training.

The fellowship is a full-time position, initially for 12 months and extendable up to 48 months after positive evaluation. The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member, determined by family status and seniority, and is free of personal income tax. Ghent University staff enjoy numerous benefits, including training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

To apply, send your CV, diploma copy, and motivation letter to [email protected] before July 9th, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. For further information, contact Prof. Van Cleemput at the same email address. You may also apply via the provided application portal link.