Tara Grauwet

KU Leuven is offering a fully funded PhD position on Microbial foods for sustainable nutrition within the Laboratory of Food Microbiology, part of the Centre for Food and Microbial Technology (CFMT) and the Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M²S). The project is a collaboration between Prof. Luis Diaz Allegue and Prof. Tara Grauwet , bringing together expertise in microbial biotechnology, food processing, digestion, and nutrient bioaccessibility. The research focuses on the development of microbial foods and microbial ingredients for sustainable nutrition. The PhD will investigate how cultivation conditions, bioprocessing, and downstream processing can be used to steer biomass composition, functionality, and the formation of health-relevant compounds. A major part of the project is the link between bioproduction and food digestion : microbial ingredients will be incorporated into model food systems and studied using in vitro digestion to understand how processing and food microstructure influence macronutrient digestion and nutrient bioaccessibility. The work will involve laboratory experimentation and analysis using state-of-the-art techniques. Key topics include microbial bioproduction process optimization, downstream processing of biomass, formulation and processing effects on nutritional functionality, digestion kinetics, interaction effects in complex food systems, and statistical analysis. The successful candidate will contribute to publications, conference presentations, internal reporting, project meetings, and training activities, and will also supervise bachelor and master students. This position is well suited to candidates with a Master’s degree in bioscience engineering, industrial biotechnology, applied microbiology, food science & technology, or a related field. Strong knowledge of bioprocess engineering, applied microbiology, microbial biotechnology, and general laboratory practice is expected, including experience under sterile conditions. Familiarity with chromatography, microscopy, molecular biology methods, food science, and colloidal chemistry is desirable, and experience with in vitro digestion studies is a plus. Excellent English communication skills and proficiency with standard office tools are also required. The position is offered as a fully funded 4-year PhD scholarship , with continuation after the first year depending on a positive evaluation. KU Leuven also highlights access to training, workshops, conferences, university infrastructure, and sports facilities. The university emphasizes its international research environment in Leuven, Belgium, and the application deadline is 31 July 2026 . Applicants should submit a CV, official BSc and MSc transcripts, a motivational letter outlining research goals, skills and experience, and the contact details of two referees. Applications are to be submitted in English via the KU Leuven job portal.