PhD student in Organic Synthesis/Chemical Biology
PhD opportunity in Organic Synthesis / Chemical Biology at KU Leuven, Belgium.
This position is part of the newly funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network ANA-KIN, an interdisciplinary European network recruiting 12 doctoral candidates across multiple institutions in Europe. The KU Leuven position is hosted by the Laboratory of Chemical Biology and focuses on developing chemical biology approaches for novel kinase inhibitor assays using photoaffinity probes and cleavable linker strategies.
The host lab works across organic chemistry, biochemistry, cell biology, and proteomics to study disease-relevant enzymes. Within ANA-KIN, the doctoral candidate will join an international and highly collaborative research environment with leading academic and industrial partners, with opportunities for international secondments, workshops, scientific training, networking, and transferable-skills development across Europe.
Research area:
organic synthesis, chemical biology, kinase biology, bioconjugation, fluorescence-based assays, structural biology, drug discovery, cell biology, proteomics.
Eligibility highlights:
applicants should hold an MSc degree in organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, or a related discipline. Practical hands-on experience with organic synthesis is required. Prior exposure to chemical biology, bioconjugation, fluorescence-based assays, or kinase biology is welcome. Strong English communication skills and a proactive, collaborative mindset are expected.
Funding and program:
this is a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network-funded doctoral position. The successful candidate will be registered in the KU Leuven Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences and will work in a stimulating, interdisciplinary, and internationally oriented environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities.
Mobility rule:
applicants of any nationality may apply, but under MSCA rules they must not have lived or carried out their main activity in Belgium for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately before recruitment.
Deadline:
7 September 2026, 23:59 Brussels time.
How to apply:
submit a motivation letter, CV, MSc degree certificate, transcripts, and contact details of at least two references via the application link. For additional information, contact Prof. Dr. Steven Verhelst at [email protected] or visit the lab website.
