PhD in AI for Insect Monitoring — KU Leuven

Key details

• Host institution: KU LEUVEN
• Location: KU LEUVEN, Leuven, Belgium
• Application deadline: June 30, 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

We are recruiting a PhD researcher within the INTEGRAI project, a large multi‑partner, practice‑driven research project funded under the VLAIO LA‑traject framework. The project focuses on developing a context‑aware, predictive AI platform for insect monitoring and integrated pest management in agriculture, with an initial focus on Belgian endives and carrots.

Your Role

As a PhD researcher, you will contribute to designing advanced AI methods that combine computer vision outputs from insect trap imagery with spatial, temporal, ecological, and crop‑specific context, as well as human‑in‑the‑loop feedback from experts and practice centres. Your research will focus on making AI systems robust, interpretable, and data‑efficient over time, enabling reliable risk prediction and decision support under changing environmental conditions.

Profile

• A Master’s degree in Engineering (Bioscience, Electrical/Computer, Mechanical), Computer Science, Applied Math/Statistics, Physics, or a related field. Candidates who will graduate in the near future are also welcome to apply.
• Strong foundation in machine learning/deep learning and solid Python skills.
• Interest in computer vision, representation learning, context‑aware AI, active learning/DOE, and MLOps.
• Curiosity, independence, and excellent communication skills in English. Speaking Dutch is a plus but not required.
• Enthusiasm for working with multidisciplinary, multi‑partner teams in academia and industry.

We Offer

• A full‑time position for 1 year. After a positive evaluation according to the Arenberg Doctoral School regulations, the contract will be extended to allow completion of the PhD in 4 years.
• A varied and challenging job in close cooperation with industry.
• A dynamic and supportive research environment providing strong mentorship.
• Opportunities for further personal development through training and participation in workshops, courses, seminars, and international conferences. Doctoral training is provided through the Leuven Arenberg Doctoral School.
• Remuneration according to KU Leuven salary scales (Scale 43).
• Expected start date: October 1st, 2026.

Application

Candidates are invited to submit their application via the KU Leuven online application tool no later than June 30th, 2026. Applications will be screened on a rolling basis, and suitable candidates may be selected and interviewed before the deadline. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Documents to provide:

• Motivation letter (maximum 1 A4 page), outlining your motivation for the position and how your strengths and background align with the project. Also include your earliest possible start date.
• Curriculum Vitae, including details of your education, current position, relevant work experience (if any), relevant extracurricular activities, and references we may contact.

For more information, please contact Prof. dr. ir. Wouter Saeys (tel.: +32 16 32 85 27, email: [email protected]) or Dr. ir. Bart De Ketelaere (tel.: +32 16 32 85 93, email: [email protected]).