Thatcher Akele

This postdoctoral position is offered by the ADVANTAGE Division of the Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences at KU Leuven, Belgium, within the interdepartmental MolMed research facility. The division specializes in molecular studies of human diseases and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies, including gene therapy, CAR-T cells, cell therapy, and small molecules. Professor Zeger Debyser's group is internationally recognized for its work on LEDGF/p75 in HIV integration and MLL leukemia. The current research focus is on mixed lineage leukemia and acute myeloid leukemia (AML), with an emphasis on developing and testing artificial CAR-T cells as part of the European Project ART-Cell. The successful postdoctoral fellow will coordinate and conduct research tasks related to the development and optimization of artificial CAR-T cell therapeutics, including testing their activity and toxicity in cell culture and animal models (mouse). The position offers opportunities for both basic and translational research, leveraging existing expertise in LEDGF cell biology and its role in leukemia. Applicants must have a PhD in a relevant field (Biomedical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering Sciences, or Veterinary Sciences) and at least two first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals. Expertise in oncology and/or cell biology is required, and experience with animal research and certification is advantageous. The position is funded for two years within a competitive European research program, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities, technical support, and collaboration with motivated PhD and master's students. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering a respectful and socially safe environment for all researchers. For further details, candidates can visit the MolMed website or contact Prof. dr. Zeger Debyser or Mrs. Thatcher Akele by email.