Postdoctoral Researcher in Bioarts and Biomaterials at Ghent University, Belgium

Ghent University is inviting applications from qualified candidates for a Postdoctoral Researcher in Bioarts and Biomaterials within the Metabolic Engineering research group (MEMO) at the Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering. This interdisciplinary position focuses on concluding innovative projects at the convergence of biotechnology, design, and art while developing future research initiatives.

Position Summary

About the Research Area

The Centre for Synthetic Biology (CSB) at Ghent University has a strong tradition of applying synthetic biology to industrial biotechnology. Within CSB, the Metabolic Engineering research group (MEMO) integrates microbial biotechnology, biomaterials research, and interdisciplinary collaborations across biotechnology, design, art, and society through projects such as BactoHealing and Fungateria.

Eligibility & Qualifications

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Required Diploma: A thesis-based doctorate (PhD) in bioscience engineering, biotechnology, (analytical) chemistry, materials science, bioengineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Strong background and experimental expertise in biological materials and biomaterials.
• Demonstrated experience or track record at the intersection of biology, biotechnology, art, and/or design.
• Experience with fungi, mycelium-based materials, microbial materials, or related living materials is an asset.
• Familiarity with bio-Kintsugi/Kintsugi-inspired material practices or concepts of repair, care, and material transformation is an asset.
• Experience organizing exhibitions, workshops, and public engagement activities.
• Demonstrated grant writing, project development, or funding acquisition capabilities are considered a strong plus.
• Excellent proficiency in written and spoken English (knowledge of Dutch is an asset).

Job Description & Responsibilities

As a Postdoctoral Researcher in Bioarts and Biomaterials, your core responsibilities will include:

• Planning, coordinating, and executing the remaining research and reporting activities within the BactoHealing and Fungateria projects.
• Developing, testing, and documenting biomaterial and bioart concepts at the interface of biology, biotechnology, fungi, and creative practice.
• Translating research findings into scientific papers, reports, demonstrators, exhibitions, and public-facing workshops.
• Collaborating closely with researchers, technical staff, artists, designers, and partner institutions across various disciplines.
• Identifying funding calls, establishing strategic partnerships, and drafting grant proposals to sustain and expand this interdisciplinary line of research.

What Ghent University Offers

• A fixed-term postdoctoral contract of at least 3 months (earliest start date: October 1, 2026).
• Remuneration according to Ghent University salary scales PD1 to PD4.
• Extensive employee benefits including 36 days of annual leave (full-time basis) plus fixed bridge days, bicycle allowances, training opportunities, and eco vouchers.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted exclusively via the Ghent University e-recruitment system. Please prepare the following documents (maximum file size 10 MB per field):

• CV: Comprehensive curriculum vitae merged with transcripts of your academic record in a single PDF file.
• Cover Letter: Motivation letter in PDF format.
• Diploma: Copy/transcript of your PhD degree (with certified English, Dutch, French, or German translation if issued in another language).

Note: Applications sent via email will not be considered.

For informal scientific inquiries: Contact Prof. Marjan De Mey via email at Marjan.DeMey@UGent.be or call +32(0)9/264 60 28.

Last Date to Apply

The closing date for applications is September 8, 2026, at 23:59 (Brussels Time).

Application Link

Click Here to Apply Online at Ghent University