Jobs

IDLab/IMEC Ghent University has an open PhD position in the domain of microbial systems genetics. The goal of the PhD research is to develop and apply state-of-the-art bioinformatics and AI-based techniques to study adaptive interactions within microbial communities that contribute to Indwelling Device-Associated Infections (IDAIs).

Tasks

developing and applying bioinformatics and AI-based techniques to study adaptive interactions within microbial communities that contribute to Indwelling Device-Associated Infections (IDAIs). This includes  optimizing state-of-the-art metagenome and metatranscriptome analysis, developing  methodologies for association analysis and applying graph-based methods to study microbial interactions and cellular and molecular level.

Requirements

• You hold a Master degree in Bioinformatics, Informatics, Physics, Biochemistry, Engineering, Bioscience engineering, or an equivalent degree. Last year students can also apply
• A strong interest in interdisciplinary research
• Interest/knowledge of computer science and/or machine learning
• Interest in biology or molecular biology
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, R and/or C++ as well as Linux systems.
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Interest in contributing to a MSCA Doctoral Network (benefit from the opportunity to spend a number of months working with project collaborators at partner universities)

More information

The student will be located in the group headed by K. Marchal UGent, located at the engineering faculty of Ghent University (IDLab/IMEC). The group’s research focus is on bioinformatics method development and collaborates with the AI group of Prof. T De Meester. The group is specialized in combining computerscience with biological principles (https://biblio.ugent.be/person/352760E4-F0EE-11E1-A9DE-61C894A0A6B4/bof?span=all, http://www.ugent.be/ea/idlab/en/members/kathleen-marchal.htm). This PhD research will involve a close collaboration with Prof. H. Steenackers at the KU Leuven (microbial ecologist, https://www.biw.kuleuven.be/m2s/cmpg/research/MICA). For more information, contact kathleen.marchal@ugent.be.

Interested?

To apply, forward a copy of your CV, your transcripts, a GRE test and a motivation letter and contact information for two references, to the following email address kathleen.marchal@ugent.be

• We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months, which - after a positive evaluation, will be extended to a total maximum of 48 months
• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers.
• We offer the opportunity to do this research in an international and stimulating environment. The research will be conducted at the premises of IDLab, located in Ghent. Ghent University consistently ranks among the best 100 universities in the world. Located in the heart of Europe, Ghent is a beautiful and welcoming city (https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/ghent-belgiums-best-kept-secret) with plenty of cultural and leisure activities.