Doctoral Fellow in Biosynthesis of Plant-AMF Signaling Compounds via Microbial Cell Factories Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University’s Department of Biotechnology, within the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering and the Centre for Synthetic Biology, is seeking a doctoral fellow to join the BioPort research group. The position is part of the Horizon Europe Pathfinder project “Engineering bioreactor mass production of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi for European farming (AMFactory),” which aims to revolutionize the production of AMF bioinoculants for sustainable agriculture. The successful candidate will focus on the biosynthesis of plant-AMF signaling compounds using microbial cell factories and synthetic biology approaches. These compounds are crucial for optimal fungal colonization of plant roots, and their heterologous production will be established in microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, or Yarrowia lipolytica.

The BioPort group is a dynamic team working on fundamental and applied aspects of industrial biotechnology and synthetic biology, including microbial transport systems, yeast lipid production, waste valorization, and C1 utilization. The research will contribute to bridging the gap between contaminant-free AMF production in root organ cultures and scalable, cost-effective bioreactor-based mass production, enhancing the EU’s competitiveness in the AMF bioinoculant market.

The doctoral fellowship is a full-time position for up to 48 months, starting no later than May 1, 2026. The initial contract is for 12 months, with extension upon positive evaluation. The fellowship covers 100% of the net salary of an AAP member, determined by family status and seniority, and is tax-free. Ghent University offers additional benefits, including extensive training opportunities, 36 days of annual holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Bioscience Engineering, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or Biomedical Engineering from an EU, EER, or Swiss institution. Essential qualifications include experience in molecular biology and microbiology, with additional experience in industrial biotechnology, synthetic biology, biochemistry, or genetic modification of E. coli, S. cerevisiae, or Y. lipolytica considered a plus. Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of Dutch is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate scientific maturity, independence, creativity, resilience, and strong teamwork and communication skills.

Interested candidates should send their CV (including study results, thesis topic, referee contacts, and a recent photo), diploma copy, and motivation letter to [email protected]. Applications must be complete and submitted before the deadline of December 1, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. ir. Inge Van Bogaert at [email protected].

Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, and encourages all qualified candidates to apply. For details on additional PhD scholarship opportunities (FWO), visit the provided links.