Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are pivotaldelivery vectors for gene therapy due to their broad tissue tropism, lowpathogenicity, and ability to support long-term gene expression. During AAVmanufacturing, however, full capsids containing the therapeutic 4.7 kbsingle-stranded DNA genome are produced alongside empty and partially filledcapsids. The later can reduce therapeutic efficacy.
Current analytical methods for thedetermination and separation of AAV populations often require large samplevolumes or high particle concentrations, may compromise capsid integrity, andcan exhibit limited adaptability across the different serotypes. Consequently,there is a need for adaptable, non-invasive techniques capable ofdistinguishing capsid populations across a broad range of AAV serotypes.
In our current work, we have demonstrated thatdielectrophoresis (DEP) can be used as an alternative to the manipulation anddifferentiation of loaded and unloaded AAV1 capsids, exploiting the differencesin electrical properties resulting from the loading. We are now looking for aninternship student to evaluate how this approach can be extended acrossmultiple AAV serotypes and to determine the underlying factors influencingserotype-dependent behavior. The results will contribute to a scientificpublication.
Objective
The primary objective of this internship is toinvestigate the adaptability of DEP-based AAV characterization across differentserotypes and to assess its potential as a universal analytical tool for capsiddifferentiation.
What You Will Do
What youwill learn:
Requirements:
Type of internship: Master internship
Duration: 6 months
Required educational background: Biomedical engineering, Bioscience Engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics
University promotor: Liesbet Lagae (KU Leuven)
Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Mayela Arreola Barba (< email deleted for security reasons >) and Camila Dalben Madeira Campos (< email deleted for security reasons >)
The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-288. Mention this reference code in your application.
Applications should include the following information:
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Current analytical methods for thedetermination and separation of AAV populations often require large samplevolumes or high particle concentrations, may compromise capsid integrity, andcan exhibit limited adaptability across the different serotypes. Consequently,there is a need for adaptable, non-invasive techniques capable ofdistinguishing capsid populations across a broad range of AAV serotypes.
In our current work, we have demonstrated thatdielectrophoresis (DEP) can be used as an alternative to the manipulation anddifferentiation of loaded and unloaded AAV1 capsids, exploiting the differencesin electrical properties resulting from the loading. We are now looking for aninternship student to evaluate how this approach can be extended acrossmultiple AAV serotypes and to determine the underlying factors influencingserotype-dependent behavior. The results will contribute to a scientificpublication.
Objective
The primary objective of this internship is toinvestigate the adaptability of DEP-based AAV characterization across differentserotypes and to assess its potential as a universal analytical tool for capsiddifferentiation.
What You Will Do
- Investigate the influence of capsid loading state (empty versus full) on DEP behavior across serotypes.
- Evaluate the effect of labeling on particle manipulation and detection.
- Analyze DEP response data to identify serotype-dependent trends and distinguish electrical characteristics.
What youwill learn:
- Fundamentalsof DEP manipulation and characterization of AAV particles.
- Hands-onexperience with fluorescence imaging, microfabrication techniques and cleanroomprocessing.
- Practicalskills in Python for image processing and data analysis.
- Experiencein experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific communication.
Requirements:
- Master'sstudent in (Bio)chemistry, (Bio)physics, (Bio)nanoscience/technology, or arelated field.
- Hands-onexperience in laboratory-based experiments.
- Basicprogramming skills.
- Analyticalmindset and problem-solving skills.
- Abilityto work independently and in a team environment.
- Goodcommunication skills in English.
Type of internship: Master internship
Duration: 6 months
Required educational background: Biomedical engineering, Bioscience Engineering, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Physics
University promotor: Liesbet Lagae (KU Leuven)
Supervising scientist(s): For further information or for application, please contact Mayela Arreola Barba (< email deleted for security reasons >) and Camila Dalben Madeira Campos (< email deleted for security reasons >)
The reference code for this position is 2026-INT-288. Mention this reference code in your application.
Applications should include the following information:
- resume
- motivation
- current study
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
