Principal Investigator / Group Leader in Applied AI for Biomedical Research (Tenure Track Professor) VIB Center for AI & Computational Biology in Belgium

VIB.AI and Ghent University are recruiting a Principal Investigator / Group Leader in applied artificial intelligence for (bio)medical research, with a linked tenure-track professor appointment at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University.

The position is aimed at researchers who develop innovative machine learning methods to answer fundamental questions in biomedical science. Research directions mentioned in the call include multi-scale AI models, virtual cell and digital twin models, new AI architectures and hybrid deep learning/mechanistic models, foundation models for genome regulation using single-cell and spatial multi-omics, protein structure and interaction modeling, and computational analysis of cell morphology, tissue organization, organ function, biomedical imaging, and computer vision. Translational and applied profiles are also welcome, including synthetic biology, AI-guided experimental design and automation, biomedical engineering, and clinically relevant AI tools.

The successful candidate will build an independent research group, contribute to the new VIB.AI center, teach in English or Dutch, supervise MSc theses and PhD students, and provide scientific and service contributions to VIB and the university. The role is embedded in a strong collaborative environment with access to VIB, Ghent University, CRIG, HINT.GENT, UZGent Biobank, computing clusters, sequencing/proteomics/single-cell/microscopy core facilities, and dedicated administrative and business development support.

Funding: full salary plus substantial core research funding in an internationally competitive package, renewable for multiple additional 5-year periods. The package also includes excellent health benefits and support for recruiting PhD students and postdocs.

Eligibility highlights: thesis-based doctorate or equivalent in machine learning or a related quantitative field; at least two years of postdoctoral experience by 1 February 2027; strong publication record; competitive funding potential; excellent programming and ML skills; international experience; and strong English. Dutch is not required at the start, but B2 level must be achieved within five years, with language training offered.

Application: apply online via the UGent e-recruitment system before 31 May 2026. Required documents include the application form with attachments merged into one PDF, a 2–4 page research plan statement, referee contacts, doctoral transcript, and equivalence/translation documents if relevant.