The Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Vaccine Discovery (MVVD) at the KU Leuven Rega Institute, part of the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, takes a systematic and integrated approach to experimental vaccinology in order to develop innovative antiviral strategies against human viruses such as HBV, Zika, Ebola, and SARS-CoV-2. Preclinical proof-of-concept for vaccine safety, immunogenicity and efficacy is provided in advanced small animal models employing multimodal analysis to understand the complex pathophysiology of infectious diseases and respective immunological mechanisms required for protection. Using the YF17D legacy vaccine as a powerful vaccine platform and building on cutting-edge experimental tools and groundbreaking discoveries, MVVD integrates virology, immunology, and deep expression analyses to advance vaccine research. To strengthen its vaccine discovery efforts, MVVD is seeking a highly motivated and experienced research expert to develop, lead, and implement reverse vaccinology strategies. The selected candidate will play a key role in driving research programs, leveraging state-of-the-art technologies to accelerate vaccine development.
Responsibilities
- Design, plan, and implement state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies to support multimodal preclinical evaluations of vaccine candidates and provide mechanistic insights into disease pathogenesis.
- Build and extend a pipeline for the implementation of systems serology methodologies (e.g. high-dimensional data analysis).
- Proactively contribute to research projects, ensuring their successful execution and adherence to timelines. Report progress during internal meetings, meetings with collaborators, and funding bodies.
- Work collaboratively within interdisciplinary teams through national and international consortia to advance research goals and ensure the timely execution of research activities.
- Prepare and publish high-impact scientific manuscripts, as well as present findings at international conferences and meetings.
- Supervise and mentor master’s and PhD students (as co-promotor).
- Coordinate the planning and research activities of a team of technicians.
- Secure research funding through grant applications and collaborative partnerships.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of advancements in immunology, vaccinology, and emerging infectious diseases.
Profile
- PhD in Immunology, Microbiology, Virology, Molecular Biology, or a related field, with a strong focus on antiviral research.
- At least 12 years of experience in academic research (including PhD), with proven international mobility and a significant scientific network.
- Proven scientific track record in (i) project leadership, (ii) collaborations, (iii) authorship in high-impact peer-reviewed publications, (iv) presentations and visibility at scientific conferences, and (v) success in securing research funding.
- Thorough knowledge of immunology (especially vaccine development), virology, cell biology, and molecular biology. Proven expertise in molecular and cellular immunology techniques, such as ELISpot, flow cytometry, cell sorting, and confocal microscopy.
- Demonstrated expertise in the use of experimental animal models to study immunological conditions.
- Experience in planning and conducting experiments in biosafety level 3 laboratories.
- Strong skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific reasoning, with a solid foundation in state-of-the-art methodology. Prior hands-on experience with multidimensional data analysis is a strong advantage.
- Effective communication, presentation, and writing skills in English are essential.
- Able to mentor and steer an interdisciplinary team (Postdocs, PhD students, scientific collaborators, technical personnel) and to coordinate multidisciplinary collaborations.
- Responsible, engaged, team player, hands-on attitude, analytical, critical, excellent communication skills (written and verbal).
Offer
We offer offer a full-time and permanent position as Research Expert in a dynamic international research environment.
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Kai Dallmeier, tel.: +32 16 32 18 64, mail: [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.
