Research & Teaching Assistant (PhD Candidate): Ghent University Global Campus (GUGC), South Korea, invites applications for a full-time Research & Teaching Assistant (PhD Candidate) in Biotech Data Science, starting March 1, 2026 (negotiable). The position offers a unique opportunity to pursue doctoral research under the supervision of Prof. Wesley De Neve at the Center for Biosystems and Biotech Data Science (KR01), in collaboration with the Internet Technology and Data Science Lab (IDLab, TW06) at Ghent University, Belgium.
This role combines research in deep machine learning and biotechnology with teaching support in informatics and bioinformatics courses at GUGC.
Research & Teaching Assistant (PhD Candidate) in Biotech Data Science – Ghent University Global Campus, Korea
Position Summary Table
| Title | Research & Teaching Assistant (PhD Candidate) in Biotech Data Science |
|---|---|
| Designation | Research & Teaching Assistant (PhD Candidate, AAP) |
| Research Area | Biotech Data Science, Deep Machine Learning, Biomedical Image Understanding, Biomolecule Design |
| Location | Ghent University Global Campus, Songdo, South Korea |
| Departments | Department of Environmental Technology, Food Technology & Molecular Biotechnology (KR01) and Department of Electronics & Information Systems (TW06) |
| Supervisors | Prof. Wesley De Neve and co-supervisors from IDLab–Ghent University |
| Contract Duration | 1 + 1 + 2 + 2 years (maximum 6 years, subject to annual positive evaluation) |
| Occupancy Rate | 100% |
| Starting Date | March 1, 2026 (negotiable) |
| Application Review Begins | December 10, 2025 (until filled) |
Eligibility / Qualification
- Master’s degree (or equivalent, expected by March 2026) in:
- Computer Science/Engineering
- Informatics
- Electrical Engineering
- Applied Mathematics
- Biomedical Engineering
- Or a closely related discipline
- Excellent academic track record with strong programming and analytical skills.
- Proficiency in C++, Python, Rust, or R; experience with GitHub and deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or Keras preferred.
- High motivation for applied research at the intersection of machine learning and life sciences.
- Excellent command of English (minimum TOEFL iBT score: 80).
- Strong communication and presentation skills; ability to work in an international and multicultural environment.
- For non-Korean applicants: minimum of three years of post-master’s relevant experience (waived if the degree was obtained in Korea or if the applicant holds F-2, F-4, or F-6 visa types).
Job Description
The selected PhD candidate will:
- Conduct independent research in deep machine learning, focusing on biomedical image analysis (e.g., surgical video analysis) and/or biomolecule design and characterization.
- Assist in teaching undergraduate courses in Informatics and Bioinformatics, including supervising labs, exercises, and student projects.
- Develop and submit a doctoral research proposal (approx. 10 pages) within six months of appointment.
- Present research findings at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed international journals.
- Contribute to ongoing R&D projects, including proposal development and collaborations between Korea and Belgium.
- Participate in the broader doctoral training program, emphasizing both technical and soft skills (communication, leadership, career management).
Benefits & Compensation
- Salary: KRW 27,375,000 per year (approx. KRW 2,281,250 per month, gross).
- Bonuses: June (92% of monthly salary) and December (100% of monthly salary).
- Housing:
- Non-Korean candidates – single dormitory unit provided.
- Korean nationals – housing allowance of KRW 725,000/month.
- Travel: Two round-trip tickets to home country annually (up to KRW 4,000,000).
- Insurance: Private health insurance (Marsh) provided.
- Leave: 35 paid annual leave days + holidays (Dec 25–Jan 1).
- Severance pay upon completion of each 1-year term (if applicable).
How to Apply
Submit a single PDF file containing the following documents via email to Prof. Wesley De Neve (wesley.deneve@ghent.ac.kr)
with the subject line:
“Full-time PhD Position in Biotech Data Analysis”
Required Documents:
- Motivation Letter
- Research Statement (max. 1 page)
- Full CV (including contact details of at least two references)
- Copies of BSc and MSc Degrees
- Academic Transcripts
- PDF copy of Master’s Thesis
Application Review: Begins December 10, 2025, and continues until the position is filled. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Selection Process
- CV Screening (Shortlisting)
- Selection Test
- Interview & Technical Test (Python programming, Linux, ML frameworks)
- Internal Committee Review
- Final Approval & Offer
Contact & Further Information
- Scientific Supervisor: Prof. Wesley De Neve
- Research Centers:
- Doctoral Program Details:
PhD in Computer Science Engineering – Ghent University
Last Date to Apply
🗓️ Review starts on December 10, 2025
(Applications accepted until the position is filled.)
