PhD Student

As a part of a four-year WEAVE (FWO/NCN) project between Belgium (Ghent University, Prof. Yves Briers) and Poland (University of Wroclaw, Prof. Zuzanna Drulis-Kawa), we are offering a doctoral position to study the tail fibers of Klebsiella jumbo viruses. This project builds upon a longstanding collaboration between both partners.
Every bacteriophage infection starts with the recognition of a specific structure on the bacterial cell wall by a receptor-binding protein (RBP). Some phages have only one RBP and therefore infect only one serotype, while others can kill many hosts with different RBPs. Jumbo phages are exceptionally large and possess numerous RBPs in a complex organization, allowing them to target a wide range of bacterial serotypes. Therefore, they are of great interest for therapy. Phage therapy is a long-established concept that has recently regained strong interest to treat multidrug-resistant bacterial infections. Most jumbo phages have only recently been discovered and remain largely unknown. In this project, we will study the highly branched RBPs of two specific Klebsiella jumbo phages by employing advanced molecular microbiology, synthetic biology, and structural biology.
We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months. Upon positive evaluation, this will be extended to a total maximum period of 4 years. We provide a dynamic and collegial work environment, a competitive salary, and ample opportunities for training and self-development. This position will commence on January 1, 2024, in the research group of Prof. Yves Briers (Department of Biotechnology) and includes a research stay at the University of Wroclaw.

• You have a Master of Science degree in Bioscience Engineering, Biochemical Engineering Technology, or Biochemistry and Biotechnology.
• You have an interest in conducting research at an academic level with the prospect of obtaining a doctoral degree.
• You are interested in the design of bacteriophages and their receptor-binding proteins.
• You have experience in molecular and/or microbiological research (e.g., through a thesis).
• You possess excellent laboratory skills and critical thinking abilities to interpret research results.
• You have good communication skills and can plan and execute tasks independently.
• You are fluent in both spoken and written English.
• You are open to international mobility through (short-term) research stays abroad.

Send an email to [email protected] . Your job application letter must include the following documents: a motivation letter, your CV, including your diploma and transcripts of records for both Bachelor's and Master's degrees, and contact information for 2 references. An initial selection will be made based on the submitted documents, after which the preselected candidates will be invited for an interview.