Postdoctoral researcher in bioarts and biomaterials Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher in bioarts and biomaterials within the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department BW25 – Biotechnologie, at the Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB) and the Metabolic Engineering research group (MEMO). This is a full-time, limited-duration contract for at least 3 months, with an earliest start date of 1 October 2026. The position is based in Ghent, Belgium.

The project sits at the intersection of biotechnology, biomaterials, fungi, design, art, and society. The successful candidate will help bring the BactoHealing and Fungateria projects to completion, while also contributing to follow-up research directions and new resources for this interdisciplinary line of work. Research activities include planning and coordinating remaining project work, further developing and testing biomaterials and bioart concepts, documenting outcomes, and translating results into scientific, artistic, and public-facing outputs such as publications, reports, demonstrators, exhibitions, and workshops.

The role also includes critical analysis and interpretation of research findings, coordination with technical staff, project partners, artists, designers, and researchers from other disciplines, and support for communication, reporting, and dissemination. A further important part of the job is to identify new opportunities for continuation of this research area, including funding calls, collaborative proposals, strategic partnerships, and new grant applications building on the methods, materials, and networks already developed.

Applicants should hold a thesis-based PhD in bioscience engineering, biotechnology, analytical chemistry, materials science, bioengineering, or a related field. Strong knowledge of biomaterials and experimental experience with biological materials are required. The university particularly values experience at the interface of biology, biotechnology, art, and/or design. Experience with fungi, mycelium-based materials, microbial materials, living materials, exhibition-making, workshops, public engagement, project development, grant writing, or research partnerships is considered an asset. The position calls for excellent English, with Dutch as an advantage.

This is a paid postdoctoral appointment on salary scale PD1 to PD4. Ghent University offers a range of staff benefits, including training opportunities, holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. Applications must be submitted online via the e-recruitment system by 8 September 2026 at 23:59 Brussels time. Late applications and email applications are not accepted.