Kathleen Marchal

Ghent University is seeking a post-doctoral assistant for the Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, specifically within the Data-integration and Network Biology research group. The position is based in Belgium and offers a dynamic environment at one of Europe’s leading research universities. The successful candidate will dedicate at least 70% of their time to academic research focused on developing innovative bioinformatics methods to address biological questions through the integration of molecular data. The research group specializes in data integration, network biology, and modeling of protein interactions, with a strong emphasis on computational and AI-based approaches. In addition to research, the postdoc will assist in teaching bioinformatics at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels, coordinate and supervise practical sessions and tutorials, contribute to curriculum renewal, and implement active learning strategies. The role also involves coordinating the Master in Bioinformatics program, representing it at information events, and counseling Master’s and doctoral students in internships, design projects, and dissertations. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant field (bioinformatics, computational biology, bioscience engineering, or similar), with the degree completed by the start of the appointment. For degrees awarded outside the EU, a NARIC certificate of equivalence is required. Candidates should have a strong research background in bioinformatics, programming skills, mathematical insights, and a record of peer-reviewed publications. Fluency in English and a passion for student mentorship are essential. The appointment is for three years, with the possibility of renewal for up to three additional years upon favorable evaluation. Remuneration follows the AAP5 salary scale and includes extensive benefits such as training opportunities, paid leave, and eco-friendly incentives. Applications must be submitted online before the deadline and include a CV with publications, cover letter, diploma transcript, and certificate of equivalence if applicable. Ghent University encourages applications from all backgrounds as part of its commitment to diversity and equal opportunities.

Ghent University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a one-year contract in the Department of Informatietechnologie, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture. The position focuses on AI-aided inference of protein interaction networks, leveraging advanced artificial intelligence techniques and biologically relevant assumptions. The successful candidate will join the IDLab Bioinformatics group, led by Prof. Kathleen Marchal and Prof. Tom Demeester, which specializes in developing bioinformatics methods that combine AI with biological principles. Research will be conducted in collaboration with IMEC and experts in molecular dynamics, network biology, and systems biology. The project requires expertise in computational biology, bioinformatics, or structural biology, with strong programming skills and knowledge of protein chemistry and regulation. Candidates should be proficient in Python, R, and/or C++, and comfortable working in Linux environments. The role involves interdisciplinary research, including omics data analysis, gene regulation, and structural modeling. Fluency in English is essential. Applicants must hold a PhD in Engineering, Bioscience engineering, Sciences, or an equivalent degree with a relevant focus. The position offers a competitive salary according to Ghent University's PD1 to PD4 scale, full-time employment, and a comprehensive benefits package including training opportunities, 36 days of annual leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. To apply, candidates must submit their application online via the university's e-recruitment system before December 10, 2025. Required documents include a CV and study results (merged PDF), cover letter, diploma transcript, two references, and a motivation letter outlining future research ambitions. Applications sent by email will not be considered. For further information, contact Prof. Kathleen Marchal at [email protected]. This position is ideal for researchers interested in interdisciplinary work at the intersection of AI and biological sciences, offering the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge bioinformatics research in a collaborative and supportive environment at one of Europe's leading universities.

Ghent University invites applications for a post-doctoral assistant position in the Department of Plant Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, located within the Faculty of Sciences. This full-time, temporary appointment is for three years, with the possibility of renewal for another three years upon positive evaluation. The successful candidate will join the Data-integration and Network Biology research group, focusing on the development of innovative bioinformatics methods to address biological questions through the integration of molecular data. At least 70% of the assignment will be dedicated to academic research, particularly in areas such as data integration, network biology, and modelling of protein interactions, with an emphasis on computational and AI-based approaches. The position also involves significant teaching responsibilities at both Bachelor’s and Master’s levels, including co-teaching bioinformatics courses, coordinating and supervising practical sessions and tutorials, and contributing to the renewal of course content and active learning strategies. The candidate will help coordinate the Master in Bioinformatics program, represent it at information events, and counsel students during internships, design projects, and Master’s dissertations. Additional duties include acting as (co-)chair for Master’s dissertation and internship defenses and providing guidance to doctoral students. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (Doctor of Science, Doctor of Engineering, or Doctor of Bioscience Engineering) with a specialization in bioinformatics, computational biology, or a closely related field. For degrees awarded outside the European Union, a certificate of equivalence (NARIC) is required. Candidates should have demonstrated research experience in bioinformatics, particularly in data integration, network biology, or protein interaction modelling, and possess strong programming skills and mathematical insights. A record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals and fluency in English are essential. The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about coaching students and working across disciplines. Ghent University offers a competitive salary according to scale AAP5, along with a comprehensive benefits package including 36 days of paid leave, training and education opportunities, bicycle commuting reimbursement, and ecocheques. The appointment will start on 1 March 2026 at the earliest. The university encourages applications from all qualified candidates, maintaining an equal opportunities and diversity policy. To apply, candidates must submit their application online via the Ghent University e-recruitment system before the deadline of 16 December 2025. Required documents include a CV (with publication list), cover letter, diploma transcript, and certificate of equivalence (if applicable). For more information about the vacancy, contact Prof. Kathleen Marchal at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, contact [email protected].

The University of Ghent, in partnership with IMEC and the MSCA iSTRIDE Doctoral Network, offers a fully funded PhD position in bioinformatics and systems microbiology. This opportunity is part of the prestigious Marie Sklodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks (MSCA-DN) project iSTRIDE, which focuses on advancing research and innovation in the pathology and prevention of indwelling device-associated infections (IDAIs). The iSTRIDE consortium unites leading academic and industrial partners, including six hospitals, a research institute, seven universities, and two industrial collaborators, to address critical challenges in healthcare diagnostics and antimicrobial technology. As a doctoral candidate, you will join a vibrant international research environment, benefit from network-wide training activities, interdisciplinary collaborations, and planned secondments to other iSTRIDE partner institutions. The research centers on developing and applying bioinformatics and AI-based techniques to study adaptive interactions within microbial communities, with a particular focus on IDAIs. You will optimize metagenome and metatranscriptome analysis, develop methodologies for association analysis, and apply graph-based methods to investigate microbial interactions at the cellular and molecular level. The position is offered for 48 months, with flexible starting dates. The primary academic advisor is Prof. Kathleen Marchal (UGent), with additional mentorship from Prof. H Steenackers (KU Leuven). All doctoral candidates in the iSTRIDE network will complete a hospital internship during their first year, gaining early exposure to clinical environments and real-world healthcare challenges. The program emphasizes the development of translational skills for careers in biomedical research and medical technology innovation, delivered through cross-institutional collaboration, industry engagement, structured workshops, and research secondments. Eligibility requires a Master degree in Bioinformatics, Informatics, Physics, Biochemistry, Engineering, Bioscience engineering, or an equivalent field. Last year students may also apply. Essential skills include proficiency in programming languages (Python, R, C++), Linux systems, and fluency in English. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in interdisciplinary research, computer science, machine learning, and biology or molecular biology. Good interpersonal skills, ability to present at international conferences, and willingness to spend months at partner institutions are expected. Applicants must not have been awarded a PhD and must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Belgium for more than 12 months within the last 3 years. A GRE test is preferred. Ghent University is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide and offers a welcoming environment in the heart of Europe. The city of Ghent provides a rich cultural and leisure landscape for students. The iSTRIDE program will equip you with technical and project-specific excellence, transferable skills, and a strong international network for future career development. Applications are accepted exclusively through the University of Ghent's institutional portal. Please submit a letter of motivation, CV, academic diplomas and certificates (including transcripts), and contact details of two references. The application deadline is June 30, 2026. For further information, visit the institutional website or contact Prof. Kathleen Marchal.