(ref. BAP-2026-315)
Laatst aangepast: 26/05/26
The research group of Prof. Dr. Peter Verwilst (KU Leuven) is part of the Medicinal Chemistry division at the Rega Institute for Medical Research, within the Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences. The group is internationally oriented and focuses on medicinal chemistry, combining organic synthesis and molecular design to develop innovative therapeutic strategies. Our research operates at the interface of fundamental and applied science, with a particular focus on addressing the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance.
You will join an interdisciplinary team and contribute actively to ongoing and new research initiatives in antibacterial drug discovery.
We are looking for a motivated and creative postdoctoral researcher for a fully funded 1-year position in medicinal chemistry, focused on the development of novel antibacterial compounds.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will:
- Design, synthesize and optimize small molecules with antibacterial activity
- Analyse structure–activity relationship (SAR) data and translate it into targeted design strategies
- Set up and actively drive SAR campaigns within the team
- Contribute to scientific publications and presentations
- Actively contribute to a critical, collaborative and results-driven research environment
We are looking for a candidate who takes ownership of their project and can independently develop research directions.
- You hold a PhD in medicinal chemistry or a closely related field
- You have strong and demonstrable expertise in organic synthesis
- You have experience with SAR analysis and setting up SAR campaigns
- You have a solid background in medicinal chemistry
- Prior experience in antimicrobial projects is a strong asset
- You are able to work independently, take initiative and shape research directions
- You are a team player and contribute positively to the group dynamic
- You demonstrate leadership and a strong sense of responsibility
- You have excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken)
- A fully funded full-time postdoctoral position for 1 year
- Start date: to be agreed, no later than January 1, 2027
- A stimulating and international research environment at KU Leuven
- Access to state-of-the-art medicinal chemistry infrastructure
- Opportunities to strengthen your academic track record through publications and conferences
For more information please contact Prof. dr. Peter Verwilst, mail:
[email protected].
You can apply for this job no later than June 30, 2026 via the online application tool
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.
Heb je een vraag over de online sollicitatieprocedure? Raadpleeg onze veelgestelde vragen of stuur een e-mail naar [email protected]
av_timer Tewerkstellingspercentage: Voltijds
location_city Locatie: Leuven
timer Solliciteren tot en met:
30/06/2026 23:59 CET
bookmarks Tags: Farmaceutische en Farmacologische Wetenschappen, Chemische Ingenieurstechnieken, Chemie
