Postdoc – Viral Vector Technology & Advanced Bioprocess Development KU Leuven in Belgium

The Gijsbers lab (Laboratory Molecular Vectorlogy and Gene Therapy, LMVGT) at KU Leuven, Belgium, is recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher for a fully funded, three-year position in viral vector technology and advanced bioprocess development. The lab is part of ADVANTAGE labs, a multidisciplinary group focused on advanced disease modeling, targeted drug discovery, and gene therapy. The research is conducted in close partnership with the Leuven Viral Vector Core (LVVC), a BSL2 academic facility specializing in retroviral, lentiviral, recombinant AAV, and virus-like particle production.

The project aims to deliver a standardized viral vector toolbox targeting Parkinson’s disease genes, supporting knockdown, knockout, and overexpression strategies using lentiviral, recombinant adeno-associated viral vectors, and VLP-CRISPR for gene editing. These tools will be validated across laboratory cell lines, human iPSC-derived neural platforms, brain-on-chip systems, and mouse models. The Gijsbers lab collaborates with KU Leuven groups (LVVC, Peelaerts lab, Baekelandt lab), the Loskill lab at the University of Tübingen, and the ASAP Collaborative Research Network, forming a large international consortium.

The successful candidate will lead viral vector design, development, and production workflows within LMVGT, performing wet lab experiments from molecular design to process scaling and in silico bioprocess modeling. Responsibilities include overseeing operational and scientific progress, coordinating with partner laboratories, serving as a central communication node, and ensuring timely delivery of project milestones and open-science compliance. The role also involves independent research planning, milestone tracking, scientific guidance, inter- and intra-team coordination, and meticulous documentation.

Applicants must have a PhD in biotechnology, biomedical sciences, bioscience engineering, or a related discipline, with experience in viral vector technology, bioprocess development, scaling, quality control, and neuroscience considered an asset. Familiarity with FAIR data storage and sharing protocols is required. Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple workflows in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment, are essential.

This position is fully funded through the ASAP grant cycle, with salary commensurate with experience and KU Leuven regulations. The lab operates at the intersection of synthetic biology, molecular medicine, and rare disease/neurodegeneration research, fostering radical collaboration among diverse investigators. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a respectful and socially safe environment for all.

To apply, submit your application via the KU Leuven job portal. For more information, contact Prof. dr. Rik Gijsbers at [email protected]. Applications must be received by May 15, 2026.