Devang Mehta
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PhD in plant systems biology for climate change resilience and disease resistance KU Leuven in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Computer Science
Funding
Available
Deadline
Sep 15, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
KU Leuven
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About this position
KU Leuven is offering a fully funded PhD opportunity in plant systems biology at the Division of Crop Biotechnics, Department of Biosystems, Belgium. The project is hosted by the labs of Prof. Devang Mehta and Prof. Hervé Vanderschuren, who work in experimental plant systems biology and tropical plant biotechnology. The research environment includes access to long-read sequencing, proteomics mass spectrometry, and membership in the Leuven Institute for Single-Cell Omics and the Leuven Plant Institute.
The position is part of a multi-partner strategic basic research project that aims to develop gene editing and chemical-based solutions to plant viruses. Two main research themes are described: engineering non-insecticidal solutions for viral diseases using nucleoprotein interaction proteomics in sugar beet and tomato, and understanding the plant circadian clock in latitudinal adaptation to climate change, with work in Arabidopsis thaliana. The project combines genomics, proteomics, interaction proteomics, genome editing, chemical screening, directed evolution, environmental simulation, and multi-omics. The broader goal is to develop climate-resilient crops and innovative plant protection strategies.
The successful candidate will join a competitive, international, and diverse research community at KU Leuven. The offer includes a full-time 4-year PhD position, with remuneration according to KU Leuven salary scales and generous benefits. The labs also support conference participation, publication, career guidance, grant writing training, and open science. Start date is flexible, with the earliest start in October 2026.
Eligibility highlights include a Master’s degree in Biology, Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or a related discipline, plus strong English communication skills, laboratory experience, some programming or data-analysis ability, and a collaborative mindset. Prior plant biology experience is not mandatory, but a solid foundation in biochemistry and molecular biology is expected. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until a suitable candidate is identified.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must have a Master’s degree (European or equivalent) in Biology, Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, Synthetic Biology, Bioengineering, Biotechnology, or another relevant degree. Candidates should demonstrate strong written and spoken English, some experience in molecular biology and/or biochemistry laboratories, intermediate programming or data-analysis skills or an interest in developing them, the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team, good academic performance at MSc and BSc level, an eagerness to learn new techniques, and the ability to integrate into an international and diverse working environment. Prior plant biology experience is not required, but a strong grasp of biochemistry and molecular biology tools is necessary.
How to apply
Apply as early as possible via the KU Leuven application link. Only upload the documents requested; do not add extra documents. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until a suitable candidate is found.
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