Publisher
source

KU Leuven

Top university

PhD in Chemical Engineering and Oral Microbiome Bioengineering at KU Leuven KU Leuven in Belgium

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Biomedical Engineering

Funding

The position offers a standard full-time PhD fellowship at KU Leuven, including a competitive salary and benefits according to KU Leuven working conditions. The fellowship provides full support for research activities, access to state-of-the-art technologies, and opportunities to attend national and international meetings. No specific stipend amount or tuition coverage details are mentioned.

Deadline

Expired

Country flag

Country

Belgium

University

KU Leuven

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Keywords

Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Materials Science
Biology
Dentistry
Systems Biology
Medical Science
Polymer Processing
Periodontics
bio engineering

About this position

KU Leuven is offering a full-time PhD position focused on the localized delivery of beneficial microbiomes to promote oral biofilm health. This interdisciplinary project is a collaboration between the Lab of Periodontology and Oral Microbiology (Prof. Wim Teughels) and the Chemical and Biochemical Reactor Engineering and Safety division (Prof. Kristel Bernaerts), with additional supervision from Prof. Christian Clasen. The research aims to develop innovative delivery systems for beneficial microbiomes, utilizing advanced techniques such as electrospinning, biofilm reactor setups, and systems biology tools. The ultimate goal is to design and validate new formulations that can address periodontitis, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting over half of the adult population and linked to systemic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The successful candidate will integrate in silico microbiome design, in vitro biofilm validation, and formulation development to achieve translational impact in oral health. The project is ideal for candidates passionate about translational microbiome research, bioengineering, and oral health, bridging fundamental science with applied biomedical engineering. The position offers access to state-of-the-art technologies, an inclusive and vibrant academic environment, and opportunities to attend national and international meetings.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in (bio)chemical engineering, bioscience engineering, or a related discipline, with hands-on experience in microbiological culturing and analysis. Knowledge of biofilm development and analysis, familiarity with systems biology methods (such as genome-scale metabolic modeling and flux balance analysis), and experience with electrospinning or polymer processing techniques are advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate critical thinking, motivation, and the ability to work independently as well as in a team. Advanced spoken and written English is required.

KU Leuven provides a competitive salary and benefits, full support for research activities, and a professional network. The university is located in Leuven, a historic city just 30 minutes from Brussels, offering a dynamic and international academic setting. The application deadline is 19 March 2026. Interested candidates should submit a CV, academic transcripts, and a letter of motivation via the KU Leuven online application portal. For further information, contact Prof. Kristel Bernaerts at [email protected].

Funding details

The position offers a standard full-time PhD fellowship at KU Leuven, including a competitive salary and benefits according to KU Leuven working conditions. The fellowship provides full support for research activities, access to state-of-the-art technologies, and opportunities to attend national and international meetings. No specific stipend amount or tuition coverage details are mentioned.

What's required

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in (bio)chemical engineering, bioscience engineering, or a related discipline. Hands-on experience in microbiological culturing and analysis is required. Knowledge of biofilm development and analysis is advantageous. Familiarity with systems biology methods such as genome-scale metabolic modeling and flux balance analysis is expected. Experience with electrospinning or polymer processing techniques is a plus. Candidates should be critical thinkers, motivated researchers, and team players capable of managing their own project. Advanced spoken and written English is required.

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Professors

Prof. dr. ir. at KU Leuven

University Name
Country flag

Belgium

Research Interests

Microbiology

Biochemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering

Biofilm Formation

Oral Biology

Prof. at KU Leuven

University Name
Country flag

Belgium

Research Interests

Periodontics

Microbiology

Dentistry

Medical Science

Biology

Prof. at KU Leuven

University Name
Country flag

Belgium

Research Interests

Periodontics

Biochemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering

Dentistry

Medical Science