Scientific Researcher

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 programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.

YOUR TASKS

Purpose of the role
As the right hand of the team lead of a Ghent University spin-off project, you will play a key role in transforming it from an academic spin-off into a successful venture-backed biotechnology company. You will combine scientific expertise with a strong business mindset and contribute to both operational and strategic activities across the company.

Key responsibilities

Project management

• Track business and scientific project progress and follow up on action items
• Evaluate and compare CDMOs, preclinical CROs and clinical CROs
• Prepare and coordinate meetings with external partners and contractors
• Support (pre-)seed and Series A fundraising activities
• Build and maintain the investor data room
• Prepare investor presentations and pitch decks
• Contribute to the development of business plans
• Maintain relationships with existing and prospective investors
• Conduct market research and competitive landscape analyses
• Identify business opportunities and market trends
• Evaluate licensing and strategic partnership opportunities
• Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Perform strategic and risk analyses

Communication

• Prepare scientific and business presentation
• Support grant applications and funding proposals
• Contribute to scientific communication materials
• Prepare for scientific conferences and partnering events

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Master or PhD degree in Life Sciences, Medicine, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical engineering or a related discipline
• Strong interest in biotechnology entrepreneurship
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Able to work independently in a dynamic start-up environment
• Entrepreneurial, proactive and hands-on mindset
• Experience in fundraising, business development or management consulting is considered an asset
• Advanced Master degree in Entrepreneurship/Biotech Ventures/MBA/... is considered an asset

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

• We offer you a contract of definite duration for the period from 01/11/2026 until 30/10/2027
• Your contract will start on 1/11/2026 at the earliest.
• 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 .

As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about this vacancy, please contact dr. Loren Deblock ( loren.deblock@ugent.be ).