PhD in (Bio-) Medical Sciences

This project is part of a collaboration between the Trellis Research Group and the PKD Research Group./nTrellis, headed by prof. Els Henckaerts, is a pioneering lab that works on the cutting edge of AAV biology research and translational science to develop novel AAV-based gene therapies for the clinic. The PKD Research Group is a multidisciplinary team bridging the gap between preclinical science and clinical practice. They are dedicated to unraveling the molecular drivers of ADPKD to accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutic targets./nAutosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the leading genetic cause of end-stage kidney disease, affecting over 12 million patients worldwide. Loss-of-function mutations in PKD1 (accounting for ~75% of cases) lead to progressive bilateral cyst formation in renal tubular epithelium, resulting in end-stage kidney disease by age 60 in approximately 50% of patients. Currently, there is no cure for ADPKD. Gene therapy based on adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) holds the promise of offering a long-term curative approach for ADPKD./nIn this project, the PhD researcher will develop an AAV-mediated gene therapy for ADPKD by using patient-derived cyst-forming cellular assays and animal models. By integrating advanced molecular techniques with translational in vitro and in vivo systems, the project aims to establish a robust preclinical foundation for further clinical development./nThe position is available from September 2026 onwards.