Zeger Debyser

This PhD position at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research aimed at curing HIV infection. The successful candidate will join the interdisciplinary Molecular Medicine research facility within the Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, led by Prof. Zeger Debyser. The group has recently gained international recognition for a breakthrough in HIV cure research, as published in Nature Communications in May 2025. Building on this achievement, the doctoral project will investigate how integration site selection in primary blood lymphocytes affects the transcriptional activity of the HIV provirus and explore drug-based modulation strategies. The research is highly translational, involving both laboratory studies and testing with patient samples. KU Leuven provides state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned training environment, fostering an inclusive and diverse academic culture. The position is open to candidates with a Master's degree in biomedical, pharmaceutical, or biochemical sciences, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, or Bioengineering from a EU university. Prior experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, computer science, or histology is advantageous. The first year of the PhD is funded, including supervision and bench fees, but candidates must apply for and defend an FWO fellowship for continued support from the second year onward. Applicants should be highly motivated, able to work collaboratively, and meet FWO eligibility criteria. For further details or inquiries, candidates are encouraged to contact Prof. dr. Zeger Debyser at [email protected]. KU Leuven is committed to equal opportunity and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds. The application deadline is December 24, 2025, and applications should be submitted via the official KU Leuven jobsite.

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.

Doctoral candidate with application for an FWO grant at KU Leuven (Leuven, Belgium) in the interdisciplinary research facility Molecular Medicine within the Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences. The project is led by Prof. Dr. Zeger Debyser and focuses on human LINE-1 retrotransposition , host factors that facilitate LINE-1 transposition, and the development of inhibitors in cell culture and animal models. The research also uses IPSC-derived human neuron cultures , linking the work to molecular medicine, virology, neuroinflammatory disease mechanisms, and translational biomedical research. This is a PhD opening with initial one year of start-up funding . The successful candidate must later apply for an FWO doctoral fellowship in 2027 and meet the FWO selection criteria. The post emphasizes that the group has a strong track record in securing FWO doctoral grants. Eligibility highlights: Master in Biomedical, Pharmaceutical or Biochemical Sciences, or Master in Medicine or Bioengineering. Prior thesis experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, virology, or computer science is advantageous. Experience with laboratory animals (mice) is a bonus. Application deadline: 24 December 2026, 23:59 CET. Apply via the KU Leuven online application system.