PhD position in Molecular Mechanisms of Kinase Signalling in Inflammation

Organisation/Company Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL) Department LIBST Research Field Chemistry » Biochemistry Biological sciences » Other Medical sciences » Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Application Deadline 30 Sep 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Brussels) Country Belgium Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Offer Description

We seek a dedicated and highly motivated PhD student to join the lab of Prof. Dr. Mathias Cobbaut at the Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Science and Technology (LIBST) at UCLouvain, located at the Louvain-la-Neuve campus.

We study the molecular mechanisms of signal transduction. More specifically, we are interested in the mechanisms by which protein kinases function, how they are regulated, and become dysregulated in disease. Our goal is to uncover fundamental principles of kinase biology that can ultimately inform therapeutic strategies. We use an integrated approach to ask mechanistic questions combining proteomics, biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology and cell biology.

Protein kinases are traditionally regarded as phosphotransferases and are essential regulators of virtually every aspect of cellular life. This is reflected in the impact of their dysregulation in several diseases, making them one of the most important classes of pharmacological targets. Our recent work has revealed previously unrecognised modes of kinase function, beyond their canonical role as phosphotransferases. We hypothesize such non-canonical activities are widespread across the kinome, which does not only reshape our mechanistic understanding of how kinases work, but also impacts on how we should target them pharmacologically.

Project

The successful candidate will study fundamental molecular mechanisms and explore new signalling behaviours of protein kinases in the context of inflammation signalling. Inflammation, if unchecked, can have severe impact on human health. Not only is it associated with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, et al. but is also recognized as an underlying factor for the development of several diseases later in life, where an increase in baseline inflammation is observed (‘inflammaging’). This includes neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease and cancer.

The candidate will map new kinase-effector relationships using proteomics; define the biochemical properties and interactions of kinases; and use cellular models to test mechanistic hypotheses.

This research will provide better insight into the mechanisms of signal transduction in inflammatory signalling pathways, ultimately contributing to the development of more effective strategies to target and control inflammation.

Requirements

• Master (120 ECTS) in Biochemistry, Bio-engineering, Biomedical Sciences, or related subjects
• A strong interest in the mechanistic understanding of molecules/enzymes
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and a positive, proactive mindset
• Previous experience with biochemistry/molecular biology techniques (e.g. PCR, cloning, protein expression/purification, enzyme assays, SDS-PAGE, western blotting) and cell biology techniques (e.g. cell culture, immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy) is an asset
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Good command of written and spoken English

Our offer

• A stimulating, supportive, collaborative and welcoming research environment
• Integration in the LIBST with support of core facilities incl. proteomics (MASSPROT) and microscopy (IMABIOL)
• Autonomy and support in your development into an independent researcher
• Access to a network of national and international collaborators
• Fully funded for an initial period of 2 years,with mentoring and support to develop applications for external funding.

Any questions about this position can also be directed at the same address.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the closing date of 30September 2026. Early applications are encouraged.

Starting date: 1 November 2026, or a later date by mutual agreement.