PhD Student

Job description

This PhD student position is focused on the impact of alphaherpesvirus infection on gap junction (GJ) permeability. Gap junctions are crucial communication channels. As one of their many functions, they allow virus-infected cells to warn neighboring cells about the imminent viral threat. Indeed, upon virus infection, infected cells generate antiviral messenger molecules like cGAMP. These antiviral messengers can be transferred to neighboring cells via gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) and elicit an antiviral response in these adjacent cells, rendering them less susceptible to virus infection.
Using the porcine alphaherpesvirus pseudorabies virus (PRV), we have recently discovered that upon infection of epithelial cells with PRV, virus infection leads to rapid phosphorylation of the major GJ protein connexin-43 (Cx43), which leads to GJ closure (Tishchenko et al., 2025, PLoS Pathogens doi: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012895). This suppresses the ability of infected cells to warn adjacent cells and allows the virus to spread and replicate more efficiently. This discovery represents a novel mechanism used by (alphaherpes)viruses to interfere with the antiviral response of the host. We have also discovered key viral and host proteins involved in this viral immune evasion process. In the current PhD research track, we want to investigate the mechanisms underlying the impact of PRV on gap junction permeability and the consequences for the antiviral host response.

Job profile

• You hold a Master’s degree (preferably) in Bio-engineering, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences or other relevant fields. Last-year Master students are particularly encouraged to apply, provided they will obtain their Master degree before the start of the position (September 1, 2025).
• You are passionate about virus-host interactions and the immune system and you are highly motivated to pursue a PhD.
• You are an outstanding team player.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

• We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 11 months, which - after a positive evaluation, will be extended to a total maximum of 48 months.
• Your contract is planned to start on September 1st, 2025.
• The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by Team Personnel Administration based on family status and seniority. A grant that meets the conditions and criteria of the regulations for doctoral fellowships is considered free of personal income tax. Click here for more information about our salary scales
• 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.

How to apply

Send your CV, a motivation letter, and a copy of your diploma (if already in your possession) to herman.favoreel@ugent.be.
Final deadline for application is June 1, 2025. However, if a suitable candidate is identified and selected earlier than June 1, it is possible that the selection process is finalized and closed sooner.
Starting date is currently scheduled on September 1, 2025 although this is to some extent flexible.