Postdoctoral researcher

ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students. YOUR TASKS At least 70% of your assignment will be spent on academic research. The team of Prof. Raemdonck (Ghent Research Group on Nanomedicines) is seeking a highly motivated and skillful postdoctoral researcher to work on the design of novel nucleic acid delivery technologies for ex vivo/in vivo CAR-T cell engineering. The postdoc will assist in the development, optimization, characterization and (ex vivo/in vivo) application of nucleic acid nanocarriers for delivery to T cells. The postdoc will be responsible for the overall data management of the project, preparing protocols, research reports, manuscripts, and presentations, as well as actively initiating and participating in meetings with academic and industry partners. The postdoctoral candidate shall also be committed to contribute to the supervision of (PhD) students, academic (grant) writing and support of general (scientific) lab activities. WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR You hold a thesis-based doctorate in Pharmaceutical Sciences or a closely related discipline (obtained max. 6 years ago; this term of 6 years is determined by the date written on the above-mentioned required diploma). You have obtained a Laboratory Animal Course certificate (e.g. FELASA B), allowing you to perform in vivo animal testing. You can demonstrate solid hands ‑ on experience with nanoformulations for delivery of nucleic acid cargo. Experience with the design, manufacturing and characterization of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for mRNA delivery is essential. Proficiency in relevant analytical techniques: dynamic light scattering, surface charge measurement and assays for encapsulation/loading and release. Proven experience with the (ex vivo) manufacturing of CAR-T cells, i.e. T cell isolation, activation, transfection and expansion is required. Proficiency with biotechnological techniques, including qPCR, DNA/RNA sequencing, flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, plasmid design, production and in vitro transcription of mRNA is key. Prior experience with gene editing protocols and read-outs is an asset. You have the ability to design experiments, analyze and interpret complex datasets and draw clear conclusions. The candidate must be able to combine creative problem solving with rigorous analytical thinking, demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills in English, and perform effectively under pressure in a fast-paced research environment. The candidate should possess good organizational skills, ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, and show a general interest in both fundamental research as well as translational research with industry collaborators. WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU We offer you a contract of indefinite duration with a maximum term of 2 years Your contract will start on 1/09/2026 at the earliest. All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits. INTERESTED? Apply online through the e-recruitment system. For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Koen Raemdonck ( View email address on click.appcast.io , View phone number on click.appcast.io). Important: do NOT send your application by email, but apply online. Do you have a question regarding the online application process? Please read the FAQ or contact us via View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr