Job for Researchers: Researcher in Alternative Regeneration Strategies — ILVO, Belgium

About the Role

The Plant Sciences Unit at the Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO) is seeking a researcher to join a European project on alternative regeneration strategies. The position focuses on understanding molecular processes that govern regeneration in apple, with potential applications to other crops. You will investigate gene expression under different culture conditions and use chemical separation techniques such as HPLC to identify molecules that influence regeneration.

Responsibilities

• Conduct innovative research on regeneration of new plants from apple protoplasts
• Analyse gene expression under varying culture conditions and study effects on regeneration
• Use HPLC and other chemical separation techniques to identify molecules with positive or negative effects on regeneration
• Combine and coordinate in vitro laboratory work with molecular research, data analysis, and scientific communication
• Work independently while collaborating with an experienced team and international partners

Requirements

Education and Experience

• Master’s degree or PhD in a scientific field relevant to the position (foreign diplomas must obtain equivalence recognition from NARIC Vlaanderen upon employment)
• At least 4 years of experience in in vitro and/or molecular research
• Fluent English (spoken and written)

Personal Competencies

• Independent: able to take responsibility for research activities and coordinate smoothly with colleagues
• In-depth and investigative: driven to uncover underlying mechanisms
• Accurate and critical: organised work style with attention to quality and critical thinking about results
• Hands-on: comfortable switching between experiments, practical follow-up, and collaboration
• Strong analytical skills: structured processing of large gene expression and molecular data sets
• Communicative: effective in international collaborations and scientific presentations

What We Offer

• Open-ended contract (full-time) with a competitive salary based on your degree
• Appointment in salary scale A165 (relevant seniority may be taken into account; use the Salarissimulator with “volgens anciënniteit – according to seniority”)
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge plant regeneration research within a European project
• Collaborative environment with experienced researchers and international partners

How to Apply

Submit your application by Sunday 2 August 2026. Location: Merelbeke-Melle, Belgium. For more information, contact Johan Van Huylenbroeck (+3292722862, +32498852885, [email protected]) or Tom Eeckhaut (ILVO researcher, +3292722860, [email protected]).

Original vacancy