Els Henckaerts

KU Leuven is offering a PhD position in the Trellis research group for a project at the interface of AAV virology , gene therapy , and single-cell transcriptomics . The work is led by Prof. Els Henckaerts and is embedded in a highly translational research environment focused on developing innovative therapies based on recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV). The project addresses an important bottleneck in gene therapy: inefficient rAAV manufacturing. Although rAAV is one of the leading vectors for in vivo gene delivery and has already enabled multiple approved therapies, the biological mechanisms governing genome replication, packaging, and encapsidation remain incompletely understood. The PhD student will investigate the regulatory mechanisms that control AAV genome replication and packaging, with a particular focus on how host cells manage these processes. In collaboration with the lab of Prof. Thierry Voet and the Reproductive Genomics group, the project will also use single-cell transcriptomics to identify genes and gene products that drive AAV replication and packaging over time. In addition, the effect of genome rescue on rAAV manufacturing will be assessed. This is a strong opportunity for students interested in fundamental mechanistic virology with clear translational relevance. The project combines classical wet-lab techniques such as cell culture and molecular assays with modern genomics approaches and data analysis. The successful candidate will gain experience in viral vector research, AAV biology, transcriptomics, and the development of improved production processes aimed at increasing yield and quality for gene therapy applications. The position is located at KU Leuven in Leuven, Belgium, within an interdisciplinary and collaborative setting. The research group emphasizes innovation, close interaction between academic and industrial stakeholders, and the advancement of gene therapy from discovery toward clinical use. State-of-the-art research facilities will support the candidate’s work, and the project is designed to build deep expertise in gene therapy research and associated development workflows. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biosciences, (Bio-)medical Sciences, Bioscience Engineering, Pharmacy, or a related equivalent degree. Hands-on experimental skills and an interest in exploratory research are important. Prior experience with viral vectors, RNA-seq, or single-cell methods is advantageous, and a background in computational biology is highly valued. Strong English communication skills and the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment are expected. The position is intended to start ideally on October 1, 2026 . The PhD candidate is expected to apply for a competitive personal fellowship, such as an FWO PhD fellowship , with support from the supervisors in proposal development and grant writing. The application deadline is 2026-07-28 . Interested candidates should apply through the KU Leuven job portal and may contact [email protected] for more information.