PhD Position - Antiviral Target Discovery for entero- and rhinoviruses

The Translational Platform for Virus, Vaccine and Cancer Research (TPVC) is an integral part of the Laboratory of Virology and Antiviral Research at the Rega Institute, led by Prof. Johan Neyts. TPVC bridges fundamental research and clinical translation by developing and implementing innovative technologies, models, and translational research programs. Together, the laboratory and TPVC are dedicated to advancing innovative antiviral strategies against viruses that pose a significant public health threat.

Project

Enteroviruses and rhinoviruses cause a broad range of diseases, from severe neurological disorders to asthma/COPD exacerbations. Despite this global health burden, no approved antiviral treatments are currently available. This PhD aims to accelerate antiviral target discovery by combining state-of-the-art high-content imaging and phenotypic Cell Painting profiling with AI-driven data analysis. The project will leverage innovative experimental and computational approaches to identify and validate host and viral factors essential for infection. Mechanism-of-action studies will be supported by newly developed toolbox technologies, advanced disease models including 3D cell cultures, in vivo systems, integrated multi-omics and computational analyses. The successful candidate will work at the forefront of antiviral research and will be embedded in the laboratories of Prof. Johan Neyts and Dr. Hendrik Jan Thibaut (TPVC) at the Rega Institute, contributing to the development of next-generation antiviral strategies against medically important viruses.

Profile

• MSc in (molecular) biology, biomedical sciences, virology, bioengineering, or a related field
• Eligible for an FWO PhD fellowship (MSc obtained less than 2 years ago)
• Familiarity with fluorescence microscopy, reporter assays, high-content imaging, or image-based phenotypic profiling is an added value
• Computational biology skills or strong interest (R, Python, image analysis pipelines, or similar)
• Interest in omics approaches (e.g., transcriptomics, multi-omics integration)
• Hands-on experience with cell culture and molecular cloning
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently
• Demonstrated interest in virology and infectious diseases
• Critical scientific mindset with good scientific writing skills
• Proficient in written and spoken English

Offer

• A full-time doctoral contract (four years, renewable annually upon positive evaluation).
• A stimulating, interuniversity working environment with access to advanced virological technologies.
• Collaboration with national and international research partners.
• Guidance and support from experienced supervisors and fellow researchers.

Interested?

Provide a motivation letter explaining why you are the most suitable candidate for this position, highlighting your research interests, training, and relevant experience. In addition, provide the contact details of two referees. For more information please contact Hendrik Jan Thibaut, [email protected].

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.