Postdoctoral Fellow in Membrane Technology for Downstream Purification of Biopharmaceuticals KU Leuven in United Kingdom

KU Leuven is offering a postdoctoral fellow position in the Group of Membrane Engineering for Sustainable Solutions, under the supervision of Prof. dr. Xing Yang.

The project is centered on membrane technology for downstream purification of biopharmaceuticals, with a strong focus on designing novel stimuli-responsive membranes for biomolecule separation. The research aims to improve the purification of therapeutics such as monoclonal antibodies by developing high-throughput membrane-based chromatography systems with high selectivity, competitive binding capacity, simpler processing steps, and lower material consumption.

The Yang Research Group works on process intensification strategies for low-emission, energy-efficient separation systems. Their broader research includes smart responsive materials with nano- and micro-structured interfaces, reactive kinetics, optimal separation units, and the hybridisation of separation technologies such as membranes, extraction, crystallization, absorption, and chromatography. The project is embedded in this interdisciplinary environment and combines experimental research with process system engineering and multi-scale numerical modeling.

This postdoctoral opportunity is aimed at candidates with a strong background in polymer chemistry and membrane technology, and with interdisciplinary experience in (bio)chemistry, biopharmaceutical processing, or chemical engineering. The successful applicant will contribute to a research program addressing a major bottleneck in biopharmaceutical manufacturing: efficient downstream purification. The work has clear relevance for therapeutic protein production, immunodiagnostics, and vaccine development.

The position requires a PhD in polymer chemistry or a closely related discipline, a competitive publication record, and fluency in English. Experience in chemical engineering research is considered an advantage. KU Leuven also values motivation, strong interpersonal skills, and willingness to work across disciplines, supervise postgraduate students, and contribute to teaching.

The appointment is initially for one year, with a perspective for extension. Salary and employment conditions follow KU Leuven standards and depend on post-PhD experience. The application deadline is 2026-08-28. Interested candidates should apply via the official KU Leuven job portal using the provided application link.