Ghent University is offering a Postdoctoral Researcher Position in Synthetic Biology and AI for the academic session 2025/2026. This position focuses on the integration of synthetic biology, metabolic engineering, and AI for optimizing microbial production hosts. The role includes conducting advanced research, supervising students, coordinating projects, and contributing to grant writing.

Applicants must hold a PhD in bioengineering or a related field and have proven research experience in industrial biotechnology, particularly in synthetic biology and metabolic engineering integrated with AI. Strong expertise in transcriptional expression systems, automation, and fluorescence-based screening is essential.

Founded in 1817, Ghent University is a leading research university in Ghent, Belgium. Known for its academic excellence, it offers a wide range of programs across 11 faculties, with strengths in sciences, medicine, engineering, and humanities. The university is globally recognized for its innovative research, sustainability initiatives, and international collaborations.

Application Deadline: From Sunday, 15 June 2025 till 31 December 2025

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Ghent University

• Department: BW25 – Biotechnologie (Centre for Synthetic Biology)

• Course Level: Postdoctoral Research

• Award: Salary according to PD1 to PD4 scale (doctoral degree)

• Access Mode: Online

• Number of Awards: 1

• Nationality: Open to international applicants

• The award can be taken in: Belgium

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All nationalities

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for research in Synthetic Biology, Metabolic Engineering, and related biotechnological fields offered by Ghent University.

• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Hold a thesis-based PhD in bioengineering or a related discipline.

  • Demonstrate expertise in industrial biotechnology, particularly in synthetic biology and metabolic engineering integrated with AI.

  • Show proficiency in transcriptional expression systems, automation, and fluorescence-based screening.

  • Have a record of peer-reviewed scientific publications.

  • Experience with non-model organisms (e.g., Rhodobacter, Pseudomonas) and SEVA-based DNA systems is advantageous.

  • Be proactive, flexible, and fluent in English (written and spoken).

  • Possess strong project management and collaboration skills.

How to Apply

Apply online via Ghent University’s e-recruitment system before 01/06/2025 at 23:59 (Brussels Time). Applications submitted by email or after the deadline will not be considered.

Your application must include:

• CV and academic results (merged PDF)

• Cover letter (PDF)

• Diploma and, if needed, a certified English, Dutch, French, or German translation

• Other documents: Contact information of referees

For further inquiries, contact the CSB Recruitment Team at [email protected] or +32 (0)9/264 60 30 (Note: Applications via email will not be accepted).

Benefits

• A fixed-term contract from 15 June to 31 December 2025

• Competitive remuneration (PD1–PD4 salary scale)

• Access to training and education opportunities

• 36 days of holiday per year (for full-time employment)

• Bicycle allowance and eco vouchers

• Inclusion in Ghent University’s equal opportunity and diversity policy.

Apply Now