PhD Project: Development of AAV-mediated gene therapy ADPKD

Biological sciences >
Biological engineering

Organisation/Company: KU LEUVEN

Research Field:
Medical sciences >
Medicine Technology >
Biotechnology;
Biological sciences >
Biological engineering;
Chemistry >
Biochemistry

Researcher Profile:
First Stage Researcher (R1)

Final date to receive applications: 27 Feb 2026 - 23:59 (UTC)

Country:
Belgium

Type of

Contract:

To be defined

Job Status:
Full-time

Offer Starting Date: 1 Sep 2026

Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? No

Reference Number: BAP-

Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the leading genetic cause of end‑stage kidney disease, affecting over 12 million patients worldwide. Loss‑of‑function mutations in PKD1 (accounting for ~75% of cases) lead to progressive bilateral cyst formation in renal tubular epithelium, resulting in end‑stage kidney disease by age 60 in approximately 50% of patients. Currently, there is no cure for ADPKD. Gene therapy based on adeno‑associated viruses (AAVs) holds the promise of offering a long‑term curative approach for ADPKD.

In this project, the PhD researcher will develop an AAV‑mediated gene therapy for ADPKD by using patient‑derived cyst‑forming cellular assays and animal models. By integrating advanced molecular techniques with translational in vitro and in vivo systems, the project aims to establish a robust preclinical foundation for further clinical development.

The position is available from September 2026 onwards.

Eligibility criteria:

• Completed or about to receive a Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biosciences, (Bio‑)medical Sciences, Bioscience engineering, Pharmacy or equivalent.
• Passion for experimental research with genuine interest in science at the intersection of diverse disciplines (biotechnology, pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences).
• Experience with techniques such as cell culture, immunohistochemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology (qPCR, Western blot, cloning) is highly desirable; previous in vivo experience is an asset.
• Knowledge of or background in gene therapy and/or experience working with viral vectors is a strong advantage.
• Motivation to work in a dynamic and multidisciplinary environment with flexibility to perform experimental research at collaborating research groups.
• Strong communication skills and command of English, both written and spoken.
• International working experience is appreciated.

We offer a PhD position with flexible starting date in a stimulating, interdisciplinary and highly translational research environment at KU Leuven. You will get the opportunity to work in state‑of‑the‑art research facilities that nurture novel research initiatives. You will gain in‑depth knowledge of gene therapy research and the associated development process, as well as disease‑relevant validation tools and clinical insights. As part of the project, the PhD candidate is expected to apply for a competitive personal fellowship (e.g. an FWO PhD fellowship), with strong support from the supervisors in proposal development and grant writing.

For more information, please contact Prof. dr. Els Henckaerts, mail:  or Dr. Inge Van Hove, mail: