The Laboratory for Translational Immunology and Immunotherapy (LTII) is seeking for a highly motivated PhD student!
Our lab, lead by Prof. Dr. An Coosemans, is an interdisciplinary research unit dedicated to bridging the gap between fundamental biomedical discoveries and their clinical and societal implementation. LTII operates at the interface of immunology, clinical research, and innovation science, with a strong focus on translating research outcomes into tangible healthcare solutions. Our unit is embedded within KU Leuven, a leading European research-intensive university, and collaborates closely with clinicians, industry partners, policymakers, and patient organisations.
We foster a highly collaborative, fast-paced and impact-driven research culture, where scientific excellence is combined with real-world applicability.
This PhD position is situated within LTII’s translational research programme and contributes to ongoing efforts to accelerate the implementation of innovative diagnostics, therapeutics, and healthcare interventions for patients with ovarian cancer.
Website unit
Project
Project: Immunotherapy based on repurposed drugs to combat ovarian cancer
You will join the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Immunotherapy (KU Leuven) working on a translational research project aimed at developing novel immunotherapeutic strategies for ovarian cancer. The project focuses on targeting innate immunosuppression using drug repurposing approaches, with the ultimate goal of translating preclinical findings into a phase II clinical trial.
Your work will primarily involve preclinical in vivo mouse experiments, immune read-outs and data integration toward clinical translation.
Profile
Essential requirements:
- A master's degree in biomedical sciences, medicine, biotechnology, bioengineering or related field with a strong track record from bachelor throughout master
- Solid knowledge of cancer biology and immunology with strong interest in further developing expertise in tumor immunology
- FELASA B certificate for performing animal experiments
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You are willing to engage in flexible working hours when required by experimental timelines, including occasional weekend or holiday work related to animal care and ongoing in vivo studies, with appropriate compensation and planning
- Hands-on experience with laboratory techniques including in vivo mouse models, cell culture, flow cytometry and immunological assays
- Strong analytical (including data and statistical analysis) and organizational skills
- Ability to work both independently and in a multidisciplinary team
- Fluent in English (spoken and written)
Nice-to-haves:
- prior exposure to translational or clinical research environments
- Experience with scientific writing or publications
- Experience with bioinformatics or data analysis (R, flowjo, etc.)
- Expertise in laboratory techniques: bioluminescence imaging, handling of rat cancer models
Offer
A fully funded 4-year PhD position within a high-impact translational research project after positive evaluations
Training in cutting-edge tumor immunology, preclinical models, and translational oncology
Close collaboration with clinicians and pharmacologists, ensuring real patient impact
A dynamic, supportive, and interdisciplinary research environment
Opportunities for international collaborations and conference participation
An environment with a strong track record of translating discoveries from bench to clinic
Interested?
Interview invitations will be sent out between August 10th and 12th 2026. Interviews will be held during the week of August 17th 2026 between 9h-17h CET.
Application for this position will be accepted via the online application tool until August 5th 2026.
Applications must include CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts and at least two referees.
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
[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.
