PhD Position: AI Models for Membrane Protein Design Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Belgium

This fully funded PhD position at the VIB–VUB Center for Structural Biology, co-affiliated with the VIB Center for AI & Computational Biology, offers an exciting opportunity to develop advanced AI-driven methods for protein design. The research focuses on explicitly accounting for protein–lipid and protein–membrane interactions, enabling the design of synthetic membrane proteins and nanopores with sophisticated functionalities such as selective transport, sensing, and signal transduction.

The laboratory of Dr. Anastassia Vorobieva pioneers de novo design of transmembrane β-barrel nanopores, providing a highly interdisciplinary environment where computational method development is closely integrated with experimental validation. The successful candidate will collaborate with experts in protein engineering, structural biology, and nanopore technologies, receiving direct feedback on their developed tools. The research group is an active member of the international RosettaCommons community, offering opportunities for collaboration, training, workshops, and networking with leading researchers in computational protein design.

The VIB–VUB Center for Structural Biology provides access to state-of-the-art infrastructure, including cryo-electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and high-performance computing. The lab culture is international, supportive, and dynamic, fostering interdisciplinary research and innovation.

Applicants should have a strong interest in computational biology, protein design, and AI applied to structural biology. Essential qualifications include a Master's degree (or equivalent) in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Computer Science, AI/Machine Learning, Physics, Mathematics, Bioengineering, Structural Biology, Biophysics, or a related field. Strong quantitative, analytical, and problem-solving skills, programming experience in Python or a similar scientific language, and excellent written and spoken communication skills in English are required. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international research setting is necessary. Experience in deep learning, structural bioinformatics, protein structure prediction, molecular simulations, membrane proteins, scientific software development, Linux, high-performance computing, or Rosetta software is considered an advantage.

The position is fully funded, offering an attractive salary and access to top-tier facilities and infrastructure. The application deadline is December 31, 2026. To apply, submit a cover letter describing your motivation and relevant research experience, a curriculum vitae, and contact information for two referees via the VIB career portal. For further information, visit the laboratory website or contact Dr. Anastassia Vorobieva by email.

Links: VIB Career Portal, Vorobieva Lab, VIB, Center for Structural Biology