KU Leuven invites applications for a Professor in Formulation of Biologicals, to join the Drug Delivery and Disposition research unit within the Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences. This strategic appointment strengthens KU Leuven’s expanding role in advanced biotherapeutics and supports the development of innovative formulation technologies for biological medicines and emerging therapeutic modalities.
As modern therapeutics increasingly include monoclonal antibodies, oligonucleotides, RNA-based medicines and cell- and gene-based therapies, formulation science is critical for improving stability, manufacturability and delivery. Embedded in an internationally recognised research environment and supported by major initiatives such as the KU Leuven/UZ Leuven ATMP Manufacturing Facility, the appointed professor will develop cutting-edge formulation strategies tailored to the unique properties of biological drug substances and ATMPs—without altering the core biological material itself.
Key responsibilities include developing an original research programme focused on the formulation of biologicals and/or ATMPs, publishing in high-impact journals, attracting external research funding, and collaborating across KU Leuven’s multidisciplinary biomedical network. International visibility and participation in global formulation science communities are expected. You will supervise Master’s theses and PhD candidates and explore valorisation opportunities in partnership with Leuven Research & Development, leveraging Flanders’ strong biopharma ecosystem.
Teaching responsibilities will be defined according to expertise and may include courses such as Formulation and Preparation of Drugs, Drug Compounding, or Physical Chemistry of Drugs within Bachelor and Master programmes in Pharmaceutical Sciences. Teaching duties will expand progressively as your academic career develops, aligned with KU Leuven’s commitment to research-based and activating education.
You must hold a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, (Bio)chemistry, Biology, (Bio)science Engineering, or an equivalent field, with at least three years of postdoctoral experience at the time of appointment. A strong research portfolio in formulation of biologicals and/or ATMPs—supported by high-impact publications, successful research grants and international experience—is essential. Proficiency in English is required; Dutch proficiency will be supported post-appointment.
This is a full-time academic position starting no later than March 2026, with appointment at the grade of assistant professor, associate professor, professor, or full professor, depending on qualifications. Tenure-track appointments transition to associate professor after successful evaluation.