PhD position on Laser Scatter Imaging for Plant Stress Detection in Greenhouse Crops KU Leuven in Belgium

KU Leuven is advertising a PhD position in the MeBioS research unit, within the Biophotonics group, on laser scatter imaging for plant stress detection in greenhouse crops. The project sits at the intersection of optical sensing, image analysis, and precision agriculture, and is aimed at enabling earlier and more reliable detection of stress in greenhouse plants, especially tomato.

The research responds to the need for smarter greenhouse control in protected cultivation, where optimizing the use of energy, water, nutrients, and labor is increasingly important. The project focuses on developing a new crop monitoring sensor that can support autonomous or semi-autonomous cultivation decisions based on actual crop data rather than visual inspection alone.

Scientifically, the PhD will investigate how laser scatter images of plant leaves can reveal changes in scattering and absorption linked to plant microstructure, pigmentation, and water status. The work will combine camera vision with carefully designed illumination patterns and multiple wavelengths to detect subtle stress responses early, before they become visible to the human eye. The project aims to build a functional multispectral prototype of a scatter imaging sensor, analyze scatter images quantitatively, and validate the system on healthy and stressed plants under both laboratory and greenhouse conditions.

The MeBioS unit has a strong track record in sensor technologies and data analysis for biological products and processes. Its Biophotonics group works with optical systems across the electromagnetic spectrum, including Vis/NIR spectroscopy, THz spectroscopy and imaging, hyperspectral imaging, thermography, and smart cameras. Data analysis expertise includes experimental design, chemometrics, process monitoring and control, artificial intelligence, and deep learning.

The vacancy is targeted at highly motivated candidates with an MSc in Engineering (bioscience, electrical, or optical) or in Science (physics or photonics). Useful strengths include an affinity for greenhouse farming and plant stress detection, analytical ability in modelling light interaction with plant tissue, hands-on sensor prototyping, and programming experience in Matlab/Python and Labview. Strong communication, independence, initiative, and fluency in English are also emphasized.

The position is offered as a full-time PhD contract for 1 year, with the possibility of extension up to 4 years after positive evaluation. Funding is in line with KU Leuven salary scales. Applications should be submitted through the KU Leuven online application tool by 30 July 2026. The selection process is rolling, so early applications are encouraged.

For more information, candidates may contact Prof. dr. ir. Wouter Saeys or Dr. Annelies Postelmans by email.