UGhent – Lead Scientist position

Lead scientist at UGhent to develop a live biotherapeutic product for chronic lung disease

Are you ready to make an impact on the treatment of disease through cutting-edge research? Ghent University (UGent) is seeking a full time Lead Scientist to spearhead a project funded by the Industrial Research Fund. The project aims to further develop a live biotherapeutic product to treat chronic lung diseases, with the ultimate goal of launching a spin-off company.

About Ghent University
Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programs grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.

Your Tasks

  • As Lead Scientist, you will play a pivotal role in the success of the project. Your responsibilities will include:
  • Designing and conducting in vitro experiments to evaluate efficacy and safety of potential therapeutic candidates, including using physiologically relevant 3-D lung cell cultures. This also includes experiments for the formulation and delivery of the therapeutic candidates.
  • Analyzing samples from animal studies and interpreting experimental data.
  • Collaborating with subcontractors to support their experimental efforts, ensuring high-quality execution and alignment with project goals.
  • Supervising and mentoring junior researchers and a technician on this project, and assisting in the development of the research team.
  • Contributing to the business strategy for the future spin-off.

This is a unique opportunity to merge scientific expertise with entrepreneurial ambition.

What we are looking for

We are seeking a passionate and highly motivated candidate with the following qualifications and skills:

  • Educational background: You hold a PhD degree in a relevant discipline, such as Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Bioscience Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or Medicine.
  • Technical expertise: Strong experience in microbiology, cell biology, host-microbe interactions, immunology; expertise in microbiome research is a significant advantage.
  • Problem-solving skills: A creative and analytical mindset, capable of navigating challenges, with the ability to adapt quickly and pivot strategies in response to new data or challenges. The successful candidate will excel in a fast-paced environment and deliver solutions within the project’s ambitious timeframe.
  • Team player: Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with a multidisciplinary team and external partners.
  • Entrepreneurial drive: Enthusiasm for contributing to the development of a spin-off company and a willingness to explore innovative business opportunities.
  • Language skills: Excellent command of English is a requirement, both oral and written, due to the international context in which you will be working. Command of Dutch is an added value, but not strictly necessary.

What we can offer you

  • We offer you a contract of definite duration for the period from March 1st, 2025 (or as soon as possible after this date) to February 28th, 2027.
  • Your contract will start on 1/03/2025 at the earliest.
  • Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale PD1 to PD4. For more information about our salary scales.
  • All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits.


Interested?

Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline (see above). We do not accept late applications or applications that are not submitted through the online system.
Your application must include the following documents:

  • In the field ‘CV’: your CV (pdf format), including the names and contact information of at least two reference persons who can provide insight into your professional qualifications and experience.
  • In the field ‘Cover letter’: your application letter in pdf format
  • In the field ‘Diploma’: a transcript of the required degree (if already in your possession). If you have a foreign diploma in a language other than our national languages (Dutch, French or German) or English, please add a translation in one of the mentioned languages.

Note that the maximum file size for each field is 10 MB.
As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.

More information