PhD student in Organic Synthesis/Chemical Biology
KU Leuven, Belgium
- Institution
- KU Leuven
- Country
- Belgium
- Position type
- PhD
- Subject area
- Chemistry
- Application deadline
- 7 September 2026
- Location
- Leuven, Belgium
- Funding
- Fully funded position
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About this position
The newly funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Network ANA-KIN is planning to recruit 12 doctoral candidates across multiple institutions in Europe (Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland). One of these positions is hosted by The Laboratory of Chemical Biology at the KU Leuven, which uses an interdisciplinary approach with techniques of organic chemistry, biochemistry, cell biology and proteomics to unravel functions of disease-relevant enzymes.
Website unit
Project
ANA-KIN is and interdisciplinary European Doctoral Network. It focuses on developing innovative approaches in kinase chemical biology, structural biology, drug discovery and cell biology. At KU Leuven, we will focus on chemical biology approaches for developing novel kinase inhibitor assays by using photoaffinity probes and cleavable linker strategies. The Doctoral Candidate will join an interdisciplinary and international team, and also join the highly collaborative ANA-KIN network of leading academic and industrial partners, participating in international secondments, workshops, scientific training activities, networking opportunities and transferable-skills training across Europe.
Profile
- MSc degree in organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, chemical biology or a related discpline
- Hands-on experience with organic synthesis is a requirement
- Strong interest in or experience with chemical biology and interdisciplinary research; Previous exposure to areas such as bioconjugation, chemical biology, fluorescence-based assays, kinase biology or related fields is welcome but not essential
- A curiosity-driven mindset with enthusiasm for research and learning
- A proactive and pragmatic mindset
- Good team player in internationally-oriented environment
- Excellent English communication skills
- Ambitious, motivated, creative and practically skillful
Offer
Applicants of any nationality may apply. Under MSCA mobility rules, eligibility is based on where the applicant has lived or carried out their main activity, not on nationality. For this position, applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Belgium for more than 12 months during the 36 months immediately before recruitment.
Interested?
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.
Apply directly to KU Leuven
Emerging Scholars Council is not the employer and does not recruit for this position. It is advertised by KU Leuven, and your application goes to them. We help students prepare and strengthen their applications.
Go to the official application page →Applications close 7 September 2026.