PhD in Biofilms in Porous Rocks and Sediments at Ghent University Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University is advertising a PhD opportunity in an interdisciplinary project on biofilms in porous rocks and sediments, bringing together Earth science, physics, biology, and environmental science. The project is hosted in the Department of Geology and linked to the PProGRess research team.

The research focuses on how biofilms interact with rocks, sediments, and other porous materials, and how these interactions affect groundwater flow, pollutant transport, soil health, weathering, and underground energy storage. The work aims to uncover the physical mechanisms behind biofilm evolution in porous media by combining advanced optical imaging, X-ray imaging, and micro-CT with controlled experiments on artificial biofilms in 2D and 3D porous media.

This is a strong fit for candidates interested in fluid mechanics, soft matter physics, rheology, microfluidics, and experimental work on complex fluids or hydrogels. The post mentions that experience with wet lab work, optical/X-ray imaging, micro-CT, microfluidics, or rheometry is an asset, but not required. Applicants should have a Master’s degree, preferably in geology, physics, bio-engineering, chemical engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field.

The position is a full-time doctoral fellowship starting at the earliest on 2026-10-01, initially for 12 months and extendable up to 48 months after positive evaluation. The fellowship is described as 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances, with the exact amount depending on family status and seniority. The fellowship is tax-free if it meets the doctoral fellowship regulations.

Applications must be submitted online via Google Forms; email applications will not be accepted. The selection is on a rolling basis until a suitable candidate is found, and the latest closing date is 2026-08-15. For questions, contact Prof. Tom Bultreys and Prof. Veerle Cnudde at their Ghent University email addresses.