PhD Position in Bioscience Engineering

University of Antwerp

Department: Bioscience Engineering
Faculty: Science
Institution: University of Antwerp (UAntwerp), Belgium
Employment Type: Full-time (Doctoral scholarship)
Project: PurpleSpark (UAntwerp – Wageningen University & Research collaboration)
Start Date: 1 April 2026 (or as soon as possible)
Application Deadline: 19 January 2026

Project Overview

This PhD position is part of PurpleSpark, a collaborative research project between:

  • University of Antwerp (UAntwerp) – focus on purple biotechnology

  • Wageningen University & Research (WUR) – focus on microbial electrochemistry

The project aims to advance photobioelectrochemical systems and high-value bioproduct formation using purple phototrophic bacteria (PPB). Two PhD candidates will work in close collaboration, including mutual research secondments.

This vacancy concerns the UAntwerp-based PhD, embedded in the Biobased Sustainability Engineering (SUSTAIN) research group and the BioCLEAR team.

Research Focus (UAntwerp Position)

  • Isolation and cultivation of specialised N₂-fixing purple phototrophic bacteria

  • Investigation of process conditions affecting PPB growth, composition, and performance

  • Mechanistic understanding of:

    • Electron donor and acceptor fluxes

    • Biomass retention and biofilm formation

    • Metabolic efficiency and product quality

  • Applications in feed and food biotechnology

  • Integration of controlled lab experiments with advanced analytical techniques

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct doctoral research leading to a PhD in Bioscience Engineering

  • Design, execute, and interpret laboratory experiments

  • Analyse growth performance, substrate utilisation, and biomass quality

  • Collaborate intensively with the WUR PhD candidate

  • Complete two 3-month secondments at the partner institution

  • Publish research results in peer-reviewed journals

  • Present findings at national and international conferences

  • Actively participate in project meetings and SUSTAIN group activities

Required Profile

  • Master’s degree in:

    • Bioscience Engineering

    • Biochemical Engineering (environmental/industrial focus)

    • Applied or Microbial Biotechnology

    • Or equivalent applied life sciences discipline

  • Strong interest in microbial biotechnology and sustainability

  • Solid background in:

    • Bioprocess engineering

    • Applied microbiology

    • Sterile laboratory techniques

  • Familiarity with:

    • Chromatography, microscopy

    • Molecular biology methods

  • Bioinformatics experience is an advantage (not required)

  • Hands-on, problem-solving mindset

  • Strong written and spoken English

  • Excellent teamwork and communication skills

  • High standards for laboratory safety, integrity, and quality

What the University of Antwerp Offers

  • 4-year doctoral scholarship

    • Initial 1-year appointment, renewable for 3 years after positive evaluation

  • Competitive doctoral stipend (official Flemish rates)

  • 40 days of annual leave + Christmas/New Year closure week

  • Flexible working hours

  • Internet allowance

  • Bicycle allowance or full public transport reimbursement

  • Access to:

    • Antwerp Doctoral School training programmes

    • Professional development courses and workshops

  • International research environment with strong industry links

  • Supportive, young, and diverse research team

  • Good coffee (or tea ☕)

Application & Selection Process

Required document:

  • Motivation letter (mandatory)

Application deadline: 19 January 2026 (local time)

Interview dates (fixed):

  • First interview: 28 January 2026 (morning)

  • Second interview: 13 February 2026 (morning, preferably in person)

Applications must be submitted via the UAntwerp online job portal.
Email applications will not be considered.

Contacts

Apply