Doctoral scholarship holder machine learning and systems modelling for advanced air–liquid Interface cell culture models

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The Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in the Faculty of Pharmaceutical, Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences and the Department of Electronics-ICT at the Faculty of Applied Engineering are looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of Machine Learning and Systems Modelling for Advanced Air–Liquid Interface Cell Culture Models.

Position

• You will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis.
• This project develops a digital twin framework for air–liquid interface (ALI) bronchial epithelial cell cultures, used to study human–pathogen interactions and epithelial barrier function in diseases such as COPD and cystic fibrosis. The digital twin, which is a computational model running alongside the ALI model, integrates real-time imaging and sensor data with machine learning to monitor progression of the cell culture ( expansion, differentiation). It enables timely, data-driven interventions to improve robustness and reproducibility of ALI experiments.
• You will publish scientific articles related to the research project.
• You will carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks.
• You will contribute to grant proposals and apply for scholarships.
• You present your work at national and international workshops and conferences.

Profile

• You hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (Pharmaceutical, Biological, Biomedical sciences, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Engineering sciences or computer science) or you will have obtained it by the time you start work.
• You have interest in machine learning, systems modelling and working with cell cultures.
• You can demonstrate excellent study results.
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• Candidate must be a team player.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of two years, renewable for two additional years following positive evaluation, although the applicant will be expected to actively seek independent funding and will be fully assisted in applying for personal fellowships, such as FWO.
• The planned start date is 1 November 2026 or as soon as possible after that date.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders
• You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Drie Eiken and Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including 20 August 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  • a motivation letter detailing your research interests and previous research experience.
  • your academic CV
  • names and contact information for two referees.
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact [email protected] or [email protected].

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.