Doctoral Candidate 3
Validation and standardisation of analytics in downstream bioprocessing of rAAV vectors
PROJECT INFORMATION
Host institution: KU Leuven, Belgium
Supervisory team: Prof. Els Henckaerts (PhD promotor, KU Leuven), UCB (Dr. Gael Debauve), UCB (Dr. Laetizia Malphettes)
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This project is situated in the bioprocessing of adeno-associated viral vectors. The objectives of the project are: (1) To generate and characterise standard materials for rAAV critical quality attributes (CQA) – viral titer & capsid content (i.e. capsid and DNA payload). (2) To validate various analytical methods that can feed back into the production process and help expedite process development. The project will provide skills in the field of vector productions and quality control for gene therapy applications and will allow the candidate to acquire expertise in both the academic and industry environment.
A successful project will result in: (1) Standards for empty, partially full and full capsids of three different rAAV serotypes. (2) Tools and analytical techniques to generate and characterise these standards. (3) Comparison of different established methods for capsid content determination, i.e. ddPCR/ELISA ratio, Stunner, AUC, HPLC-SEC MALS, Gator BLI, using the developed tools.
Enrolment in Doctoral School: KU Leuven
Planned secondments:
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Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece (Month 23): modelling techniques, PCA and estimation theory
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UCB, Belgium (Months 35-40): adapt analytical assays to pharma standards
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
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You hold a master’s degree in biomedical sciences, bioengineering, biochemistry or a related field.
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You are ambitious, well organized and have excellent communication skills.
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You are proficient in English both verbal and written.
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You have the ability to work independently and have a critical mindset.
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You are an enthusiastic and motivated person, eager to participate in network wide training events, international travel and public awareness activities.
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Willingness to travel.
SKILLS AND EXPERTISE
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Solid knowledge in virology
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Good understanding of AAV gene therapy and associated manufacturing methods