PhD in molecular bacteriology

The lab of Jan Michiels is embedded within the KU Leuven (University of Leuven) Centre of Microbial and Plant genetics and within the VIB (Flemish Institute for Biotechnology) Center for Microbiology. The group studies bacterial survival under various stressful conditions. The lab currently consists of ~20 junior lab researchers and is looking for a dynamic and highly motivated PhD student to develop a project studying the role of protein aggregation in bacterial dormancy.
Website unit

Project

The global antibiotic resistance crisis threatens modern medicine, with bacterial persister cells playing a key role in antibiotic therapy failure and resistance development. Persisters enter a dormant state, often linked to protein aggregation, which depletes key proteins and leads to dormancy. Our previous research has shown that a conserved GTPase is implicated in this process, as it accelerates protein condensate formation and may act as a scaffold for protein aggregation. In collaboration with the candidate, a detailed research plan will be drafted aimed at clarifying how the GTPase drives protein aggregation and dormancy. More specifically, we will identify interaction partners of the GTPase and study how interference with these interactions affects dormancy. 

Profile

Offer

Interested?

Applications should be submitted through this portal by July 6th 2026 and should contain: 

• Full CV including previous research experience and publication list (if applicable) 
• Concise (max 1 page) cover letter describing your motivation and career goals
• List of two references (e.g. master thesis promoter and/or supervisor) with emails and phone numbers
• Transcripts of your bachelor and master studies including all classes followed and marks obtained

Please note that applications missing any of the above will not be considered. Applications sent via email will also not be considered. Please refrain from using AI in your cover letter. 

For more information please contact dr. Natalie Verstraeten ([email protected]). 

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.