Ghent University’s Department of Biology is offering a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Laboratory of Protistology & Aquatic Ecology (PAE), focusing on the cell biology and genomics of diatoms. The successful candidate will investigate the effects of abiotic stressors, metazoan grazers, and bacteria on cell size dynamics and sexual reproduction in model araphid and raphid diatom species.

The project involves obtaining and analyzing single-cell transcriptomes, performing comparative transcriptomics and differential expression analysis, and developing reporter and knock-out lines. Advanced microscopy techniques will be used to functionally study selected genes, and experimental and gene expression data will be integrated to gain mechanistic insights into diatom stress responses. Data management and curation are key aspects of the project, and the candidate will be encouraged to participate in science communication.

The position is supervised by Prof. Wim Vyverman, Dr. Gust Bilcke, and Dr. Darja Belišová (EMBL Heidelberg).

Applicants should hold a relevant Master’s degree and have a strong interest in microbiology, adaptation, and genomics. Good communication skills in English and experience with laboratory experiments, microscopy, and bioinformatics (R, Python, bash, or other scripting languages) are preferred. The fellowship is initially for 12 months, extendable up to 48 months upon positive evaluation, and includes a salary based on the net salary of an AAP member, determined by family status and seniority, and is tax-free. Staff benefits include training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Applications must be submitted by November 30, 2025, as a single PDF via email, including a motivation letter, CV, diplomas, and contacts of two referees. Ghent University encourages diversity and equal opportunities.