PhD on plant-wearable sensors and machine learning for crop monitoring in horticulture
The Department of Biosystems at the University of Leuven (KU Leuven) in Belgium is offering a full-time PhD position in the lab of Prof. Bram Van de Poel, focusing on plant-wearable sensors and machine learning for crop monitoring in horticulture. The lab specializes in molecular plant hormone physiology and innovative plant sensing technologies, including patented digital plant sensors that monitor plant responses to environmental stress in real time.
This PhD project centers on developing machine learning models for plant-wearable sensors to enable monitoring and prediction of plant stress in greenhouse crops. Greenhouse horticulture is increasingly adopting data-driven crop management systems, and this research aims to advance the field by leveraging physiological signals generated by plants themselves, which can provide early indicators of stress and growth dynamics. The Van de Poel lab has developed a non-invasive wireless motion sensor that measures subtle leaf and stem movements, offering a novel approach to crop monitoring.
As a PhD student, you will generate and analyze large datasets of plant movement dynamics from greenhouse crops, develop computational methods to extract meaningful physiological signals, and use these signals for stress and growth prediction. The project involves installing sensor networks within crop canopies in commercial and experimental greenhouse facilities to collect high-resolution time-series data under various environmental conditions and stress factors. Signal processing, time-series analysis, and machine learning approaches (such as Efficiently Supervised Generative Adversarial Networks) will be central to detecting patterns in plant movement and relating them to plant stress and crop status.
The long-term goal is to create a reliable, non-invasive plant-wearable sensing system that enables early detection of plant stress and supports autonomous crop monitoring and decision-making in greenhouse horticulture. The position offers in-depth scientific training at a top-ranked university, close mentorship from Prof. Van de Poel and Dr. Reher, and collaboration with a diverse community of plant scientists within the Division of Crop Biotechnics. You will also contribute to a larger applied research project in partnership with experimental research stations and industry partners in the Flemish and Dutch greenhouse horticulture sector (Interreg project).
Applicants should have a strong interest in plant production, horticultural management, and data modelling. Experience with plant physiology, greenhouse management, sensor systems, programming, or machine learning is advantageous, with programming and data modelling particularly valued. A European master’s degree (or equivalent) in Bioscience Engineering, Plant Biology, Biotechnology, Agricultural Engineering, Bioengineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a related discipline is required.
The position is for 4 years, subject to a positive evaluation after the first year. Remuneration follows KU Leuven salary scales and includes generous benefits and Belgium’s robust social and health-care supports. The lab is young and dynamic, with over 15 members, and offers a supportive environment for scientific growth. You are encouraged to guide master’s thesis students, participate in conferences, and publish your research. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a respectful and socially safe environment for all.
For more information, contact Prof. Bram Van de Poel ([email protected]) or Dr. Thomas Reher ([email protected]). Apply online via the KU Leuven jobsite application link. The application deadline is April 30, 2026.
