PhD Student

The research group of prof. Bert Devriendt focuses on gut immunology and oral vaccine development. In the framework of a research project on oral vaccine development funded by FWO we are looking for a motivated PhD student.

Vaccination has saved millions of lives. Current vaccines are administered via injection but these do not offer protection against infections with gut pathogens. Oral vaccines hold much promise to protect against these pathogens, but their development is challenging due to the poor uptake of vaccines by the intestinal epithelium. Our group has shown that the delivery of vaccines by recombinant antibodies to aminopeptidase N on the epithelium promotes the uptake of vaccines by the gut tissues. This in turn results in robust immune responses which protect against infection with bacterial gut pathogens. The underlying mechanisms driving this aminopeptidase N-mediated immunity however remain unclear. Using gut organoids and omics technologies you will unravel the molecular and cellular pathways behind this phenomenon and pave the way for the development of efficacious oral vaccines.

We offer a full-time, fixed-term appointment for initially 1 year, renewable after positive evaluation up to 4 years in a vibrant and international research environment.

start: October 2023

- You hold a master’s degree in Bioscience Engineering, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, or Veterinary Medicine.
- you have a strong interest in immunology and/or vaccinology. Hands-on experience is a plus.
- you have a strong interest in academic research
- you have excellent communication skills

Send your application via email to prof. dr. Bert Devriendt ([email protected] ) before the 1st of August. Application should include your CV, a motivation letter and transcripts of your obtained degree and grades.
For additional information, please contact Prof. Bert Devriendt.