PhD Position in Purple Engineering: Biotechnology of Purple Phototrophic Bacteria University of Antwerp in Belgium

The University of Antwerp’s Department of Bioscience Engineering is offering a full-time PhD position in purple engineering, focusing on the biotechnology of purple phototrophic bacteria. This opportunity is part of the PurpleSpark project, a collaborative initiative with Wageningen University & Research, combining expertise in microbial electrochemistry and purple biotechnology. The successful candidate will join the Biobased Sustainability Engineering (SUSTAIN) research group, working under the supervision of Prof. Siegfried Vlaeminck and Dr. Luis Diaz Allegue.

The research centers on the isolation and bioproduction potential of specialized N₂-fixing purple phototrophic bacteria (PPB). The project aims to systematically study how process conditions affect PPB growth, composition, and performance, using controlled laboratory experiments and advanced analytical techniques. A key research goal is to achieve a mechanistic understanding of how electron donor and acceptor fluxes influence biomass retention, biofilm formation, and metabolic efficiency, with applications in feed and food production.

As a PhD candidate, you will be responsible for developing, executing, and interpreting laboratory experiments, analyzing growth performance, substrate utilization, and biomass quality. You will collaborate closely with a parallel PhD student at Wageningen University, including two three-month research stays at the partner institution to foster interdisciplinary knowledge exchange. Active participation in national and international conferences, project meetings, and workshops is encouraged and supported.

The SUSTAIN research group is dynamic, international, and committed to developing clean solutions for environmental and industrial biotechnology. The team collaborates with industrial partners and participates in major European projects such as Purple4Life, PurpleGain, and BioVal, as well as tech transfer initiatives and research platforms like Enviromics and CAPTURE.

Applicants should hold a master’s degree in bioscience engineering, biochemical engineering (environmental/industrial biotechnology), applied microbiology, microbial biotechnology, or a related field. Required skills include laboratory experience under sterile conditions, proficiency with analytical techniques (chromatography, microscopy, molecular biology), and strong English communication abilities. Bioinformatics is a plus but not mandatory. The ideal candidate is practical, hands-on, eager to learn, and committed to laboratory safety and teamwork.

The position offers a four-year doctoral scholarship, renewable after a positive evaluation in the first year. Benefits include a monthly stipend, 40 days of annual leave, internet connectivity allowance, commuting support, access to professional development courses, flexible working hours, and a supportive, creative work environment. The planned start date is April 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter.

Applications must be submitted online via the University of Antwerp’s job platform by January 19, 2026, including a letter of motivation. Selection interviews are scheduled for January 28 and February 13, 2026. The university values diversity and inclusivity, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply.