PhD in Bio-Cemented Mycelium Composites in Architectural Engineering and Microbiology Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is offering a full-time PhD position in Bio-Cemented Mycelium Composites in Architectural Engineering and Microbiology. This interdisciplinary project sits at the interface of the Architectural Engineering Research Group and the Research Group of Microbiology within the Department of Bioengineering Sciences, and is based at the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene), Brussels, Belgium.

The PhD researcher will investigate how the mechanical properties of mycelium-based composites can be improved through bio-cementation. Mycelium composites are lightweight, bio-based materials formed by fungal hyphae binding lignocellulosic fibres, with promising potential for thermal insulation, acoustic absorption and biodegradability. The project addresses a key challenge for sustainable construction: strengthening these materials so they may be suitable beyond non-structural applications. The central idea is that microbial mineralisation can produce calcium-based crystals within or on the mycelium network, forming a reinforcing matrix that improves strength and stiffness.

The work is highly experimental and combines microbiological experimentation, material production, chemical and microscopic characterisation, and mechanical testing. The PhD candidate will develop protocols for growing and bio-cementing mycelium-based composites, study how growth conditions and process parameters affect performance, and evaluate the resulting materials. The project is therefore a strong fit for candidates interested in sustainable materials, fungal cultivation, microbial mineralisation, and construction-oriented material innovation.

In addition to research, the doctoral student will contribute on a limited basis to teaching in the Architectural Engineering department, including exercise sessions, practicals, and/or student projects. The annual teaching assignment will be agreed in consultation with the successful candidate. The role is designed for a motivated junior researcher who wants to complete a doctorate within four years and develop skills across engineering and microbiology.

Eligibility requirements include a master’s degree in biotechnology, bioengineering sciences, materials science, architectural engineering, chemical engineering or a related field. Applicants should have practical laboratory skills, an experimental and precise working attitude, basic microbiological knowledge or experience with fungal/bacterial cultivation, and strong analytical thinking. Experience with mycelium-based composites, microbially induced calcite precipitation, SEM-EDX, FTIR, microscopy, mechanical testing, statistical analysis, 3D printing, mould development or prototyping is considered an asset. Good written and oral English skills are required, and candidates must meet VUB permit and residence conditions if applicable.

The offer is a full-time PhD scholarship for 12 months, extendable up to a maximum of 48 months subject to positive evaluation of the PhD activities. The scholarship starts on 2026-11-01, and the grant is linked to one of the government scales. VUB also highlights a supportive working environment, teleworking options, holiday arrangements, hospitalisation insurance, commuting support, and access to campus facilities.

Application deadline: 2026-08-31 23:59 (Europe/Brussels). Apply online at jobs.vub.be and upload your CV, motivation letter, and diploma (not applicable for VUB alumni). The selection process consists of an initial screening of the application file followed by an interview.