PhD in Plant Ecophysiology – University of Antwerp

Key details

• Host institution: University of Antwerp
• Location: University of Antwerp, Prinsstraat 13, Antwerp, Belgium
• Application deadline: August 31, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking European university offering innovative academic education to over 20,000 students, conducting pioneering scientific research, and playing a key service-providing role in society. With more than 6,000 employees from 100 countries, we are one of the largest, most international, and most innovative employers in the region. The Department of Biology in the Faculty of Sciences is seeking a full-time doctoral scholarship holder in Plant Ecophysiology.

Position

• Actively work on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in plant ecophysiology.
• Investigate how hydrodynamic forcing shapes root development in submerged water plants (macrophytes) at the morphological and physiological level, using plant physiology and biochemistry approaches alongside an artificial river (the Mesodrome).
• Publish scientific articles related to the research project.
• Carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks within the Department of Biology.

Profile

• Hold a Master’s degree in Biology or Bioscience Engineering, with an interest in plant ecophysiology and biochemistry.
• Demonstrate excellent study results and relevant lab skills.
• Teaching competences aligned with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
• Research qualities in line with faculty and university research policies.
• Act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity, and cooperation.
• Fluent in English, both written and oral.
• Experience with transcriptome and hormone analysis is an asset.
• Willingness to acquire additional external funding (e.g., through the Research Foundation Flanders).

What We Offer

• A doctoral scholarship for two years, renewable for another two-year period after positive evaluation.
• Planned start date between 1 October 2026 and 1 January 2027, or as soon as possible afterwards.
• Monthly scholarship amount calculated according to the standard doctoral scholarship rates.
• Ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs.
• Access to a wide range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
• Work primarily at the Groenenborger Campus in a dynamic and stimulating environment.

Application

Apply via the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform by 31 August 2026 (midnight Brussels time). Click the ‘Apply’ button and complete the online form, including the following attachments:

• A motivation letter
• Your academic CV
• A resume of your MSc thesis
• 2 reference letters

The selection committee reviews applications after the deadline. If pre-selected, you will be informed about the next steps. For questions about the online application form, check the FAQ or email [email protected]. For questions about the job itself, contact Jonas Schoelynck ([email protected]) or Prof. Kris Vissenberg ([email protected]), both PhD thesis promoters.