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Mario Smet

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Postdoctoral researcher for synthesis and evaluation of polymers for colon-specific drug delivery KU Leuven in Belgium

Degree Level

Postdoc

Field of study

Pharmacology

Funding

Available

Deadline

Oct 15, 2026

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Country

Belgium

University

KU Leuven

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Keywords

Pharmacology
Chemistry
Materials Science
Drug Delivery
Polymer Chemistry
Polymer Synthesis
Pharmaceutical Chemistry

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About this position

KU Leuven is offering a postdoctoral researcher position focused on the synthesis and evaluation of polymers for colon-specific drug delivery. This interdisciplinary project brings together the division of Polymer Chemistry and Materials in the Department of Chemistry and the division of Drug Delivery and Deposition in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences. Synthetic work and molecular characterization will be carried out in the chemistry department, while the assessment of material properties relevant to the drug coating will be performed in the pharmaceutical sciences environment.

The research centers on designing new polymers for controlled delivery in the colon. A key strategy is the incorporation of disulfide bonds into the polymer backbone, enabling reductive degradation under the colon’s negative reduction potential. The project will involve both chain polymerization and step polymerization approaches, followed by detailed characterization at the molecular level and evaluation of the resulting materials for drug-coating performance.

KU Leuven presents the post in a strong multidisciplinary research setting and highlights its status as one of the world’s top 50 universities and the #1 Most Innovative University in Europe according to Reuters for four consecutive years. The university also emphasizes an inclusive environment, broad training opportunities, and full social and medical insurance.

Eligibility is clearly stated: applicants should hold a PhD in chemistry, have extensive research experience in polymer synthesis, and demonstrate excellent spoken and written English. The appointment is offered for one year, with the possibility of extension for up to one additional year following positive evaluation.

Interested candidates are invited to contact Prof. dr. Mario Smet ([email protected]) or Prof. dr. Guy Van den Mooter ([email protected]) for more information. The application deadline is 2026-10-15.

Funding details

Available

What's required

Candidates must have a PhD in chemistry, extensive research experience in polymer synthesis, and excellent spoken and written English.

How to apply

Interested candidates should contact Prof. dr. Mario Smet or Prof. dr. Guy Van den Mooter by email for more information. Apply via the KU Leuven job link provided in the posting.

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