Project information:
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are among the most promising platforms for gene therapy, but their performance depends strongly on how the AAV genome is designed. Small changes in genomic architecture can influence expression levels, stability, packaging efficiency, and overall functionality—factors that directly impact therapeutic potential.
In this project, you will investigate how specific genome modifications affect rAAV vector performance. By designing and building new constructs and evaluating them in cell-based assays, you will contribute to the development of next-generation AAV tools with improved functionality for future gene therapy applications.
Objectives:
This master’s level project (60 ECTS) aims to design, generate, and evaluate modified AAV genome constructs to understand how genome architecture influences vector performance. You will assess expression and stability using molecular and functional readouts and compare results across designs to identify improved configurations.
Your role:
- Design AAV genome constructs and plan cloning strategies
- Perform molecular cloning and construct assembly (plasmid design and building)
- Validate constructs using quality control methods (e.g., sequencing, restriction analysis)
- Run mammalian cell culture and transfection experiments
- Perform cell-based expression and functionality assays to evaluate construct performance
- Analyze and interpret experimental data, summarize results, and propose next-step designs
This project offers hands-on experience with real-world gene therapy development challenges, combining design thinking with experimental testing. You will work in a biotech environment where your results can directly guide improved vector development.
Required knowledge:
Basic laboratory skills and motivation to work independently are essential. Experience in molecular cloning is beneficial, and prior exposure to mammalian cell culture is a plus. A strong interest in gene therapy, synthetic biology, or biotech innovation will help you thrive in the project.
Who should apply:
- Students interested in gene therapy, vector engineering, or synthetic biology
- Curious minds who enjoy troubleshooting and optimizing biological systems
- Students who like combining lab work with data exploration and interpretation
- Prior cloning experience is helpful but not required with the right motivation
Project duration: 60 ECTS
Location:
rAAVen Therapeutics, Medicon Village, Lund
Start date:
Flexible / by agreement
What you’ll gain:
- Practical experience in cutting-edge biotech and gene therapy development
- Deep understanding of vector design principles and experimental optimization
- Insight into how startups operate in an innovation-driven environment
- Opportunities to attend talks and conferences
- Optional involvement in additional lab work depending on interest and timing
- The chance to contribute to technology with real impact in gene therapy innovation
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