Nathalie Wauthoz

This full-time research and teaching position at Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) offers a unique opportunity to pursue a doctoral thesis within the Faculty of Pharmacy, specifically in the unit of pharmaceutics and biopharmaceutics. The position is structured as an assistant professor mandate, initially for two years and renewable up to a maximum of six years, with tasks equitably divided between teaching and research. The research project aims to develop an innovative inhaled biotherapy based on extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC-EVs), targeting the modulation of inflammatory and fibrotic processes in chronic respiratory diseases such as pulmonary fibrosis, COPD, and asthma. The project will focus on the development and characterization of a dry powder formulation of MSC-EVs for pulmonary administration, including evaluation of stability, pharmaceutical properties, and vesicle functionality. Biological efficacy will be assessed in vivo using established preclinical models, with collaborative opportunities within the laboratory and with external research partners. The research is supervised by Prof. Nathalie Wauthoz (unit manager: Prof. Karim Amighi) and Prof. F. Souard, all from the Department of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics. Teaching responsibilities include assistantship duties in French, supervising practical work in pharmaceutical analysis and biochemistry courses. Candidates must demonstrate excellent proficiency in French and good proficiency in English. The position is open to applicants holding a Master’s degree or equivalent in Pharmacological Sciences. ULB is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, offering reasonable accommodation for candidates with disabilities or illnesses. Funding is provided as part of the assistant professor mandate, covering salary and research costs for the duration of the doctoral thesis. Applications must be submitted online using the official template, including a CV, application letter, a 4-page note on the applicant’s PhD research project, and two letters of reference. The deadline for applications is April 24, 2026. For candidates from restricted countries, applications can be sent via email. For further information, contact Prof. Nathalie Wauthoz or consult the ULB website for details on gender equality and research career regulations. Start date for the position is October 1, 2026. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in advanced pharmaceutics, biopharmaceutics, and translational research in respiratory medicine.