Sign In
Sign Up

Postdoctoral Researcher – Molecular Virology (Vaccinology and Pathogenesis)

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position DurationSee Position Description
  • Position Funding Type Postdoc Salary or Fellowship
  • Application deadlineMarch 2, 2026
Apply
Get Cover Letter (CL)

Position Details (Postdoc)

The Molecular Vaccinology and Vaccine Discovery (MVVD) group at the Rega Institute, KU Leuven, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to consolidate and expand research avenues recently published (Ma et al., Nat Commun 2025; Kumpanenko et al., Nat Commun 2025, in press; Kelchtermans et al. Nat Immunol 2026, in press). Our work focuses on yellow fever and related orthoflaviviruses, aiming to translate insights from viral pathogenesis and host immunity into innovative vaccine and therapeutic strategies. This approach is guided by our vision of Reverse Vaccinology 3.0 – from understanding pathology to intervention (Alpizar & Dallmeier, Nat Microbiol 2025).
You will join a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and international team with access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, including high-containment BSL3 facilities, advanced imaging systems, and flow cytometry platforms. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to both fundamental research and translational projects, including the development of next-generation vaccine technologies.

Responsibilities

You will take ownership of a research line and lead its scientific development. This includes designing and coordinating in vitro and in vivo studies to investigate host-pathogen interactions in yellow fever and other orthoflavivirus infections. You will develop and validate advanced methodologies for antibody characterization, such as ADE and ADCC assays, implement yeast-surface display for mapping antibody-antigen interactions, and establish systems for recombinant antigen expression.
A key responsibility will be contributing to the development and characterization of transgenic and knockout mouse and hamster models, which are essential for studying viral pathogenesis and immunity. Beyond your own experiments, you will mentor junior researchers, supervise Master’s and PhD students, and guide technicians in daily operations. You will ensure rigorous data analysis, timely reporting, and achievement of project milestones. Active involvement in grant writing, scientific presentations, and collaborative initiatives will be expected to strengthen the impact and sustainability of the research program.

Profile

You hold a PhD in virology, molecular biology, or a related field. You combine strong analytical skills with the ability to work independently and lead collaborative efforts. You are a teamplayer, proactive, solution-oriented, and comfortable taking ownership of complex projects. Excellent English communication skills and a proven publication record are essential.
We seek strong molecular biology expertise as the foundation for this role, complemented by virology and immunology skills. Relevant experience includes:
• Molecular cloning and plasmid design, including infectious clones and complex constructs.
• Use of lentiviral systems for gene delivery and functional studies.
• Application of CRISPR/Cas technologies for genome editing and functional validation.
• Recombinant protein and antigen expression for vaccine and diagnostic development.
• Development and optimization of advanced immunological assays (ADE/ADCC) and yeast-surface display for antibody-antigen interaction studies.
• Cell-based virus assays [multi-color flow cytometry, primary cell culture (is an advantage)].
• Experience in animal experimentation (FELASA B/C or equivalent) and in the development of transgenic and knockout mouse and hamster models is an advantage.
• Familiarity with data analysis, bioinformatics, and modeling for transcriptomics and immunoprofiling is an advantage.
• Knowledge of BSL3 laboratory procedures is an advantage.

Offer

A position within one of Europe’s most innovative universities, KU Leuven, and the internationally recognized Rega Institute. You will have access to cutting-edge technologies and a broad collaborative network, all within a stimulating research environment in Leuven, a historic city at the heart of Europe.
Starting date: as soon as possible.

Interested?

For this application, the following information will be considered:
· Please enclose a motivation letter with a summary of your research experience and indicate what attracts you in this position and your match with the desired experience.
· CV
· Diploma and transcripts of records (BSc, MSc, PhD)
· Contact details of at least two reference persons
· Other information for consideration (e.g., a list of publications)
Please use the university’s job portal when applying for this position.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Kai Dallmeier, mail: [emailprotected] or Dr. Lotte Coelmont, mail: [emailprotected].

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.

Research Areas & Fields of Study involved in the position

Position Start Date

Check Position Description