The Department of Computer Science in the Faculty of Science is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of artificial intelligence for bioinformatics.
Position
- You will join an international research team led by Prof. Dr. Wout Bittremieux where you will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the fields of artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and computational biology.
- You will develop deep neural network models for the analysis of large-scale molecular data. You will build algorithmic and high-performance computing solutions to derive novel biological insights from mass spectrometry datasets, with potential applications in proteomics, immunopeptidomics, and metabolomics. You will use state-of-the-art AI-driven approaches to study the role of biomolecules as fundamental building blocks of life.
- You will closely interact with colleagues in the Adrem Data Lab, an internationally renowned research group recognized for both theoretical and practical innovations in data science, and Biomina, a multidisciplinary network bridging data science technology and life science/biomedical challenges.
- You will publish scientific articles related to the research project and present your work at international conferences.
- You will carry out a limited number of teaching and research support tasks for the Bittremieux Lab, such as assisting in practical teaching sessions and supervising Bachelor and Master students.
- You hold a Master degree in Computer Science, Machine Learning, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Biology, Biomedical Sciences, or related fields, or you will have obtained it by the time you start work. If your current program does not award Master’s degrees, please provide a strong motivation explaining your qualifications.
- Familiarity with molecular biology or life sciences is advantageous but not mandatory; if applicable, highlight this in your cover letter.
- You can demonstrate excellent study results, and you thrive in a rigorous research environment.
- You have excellent programming skills (Python preferred, knowledge of additional programming languages is a plus) and have a keen interest in machine learning, deep learning, and data analytics with a focus on applications in the life sciences.
- You have excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, have an inquisitive mindset, and have strong interpersonal skills.
- You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
- 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.
- International applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
- You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including March 3, 2025 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
- Motivation letter: Explain your drive for pursuing a PhD in AI for bioinformatics and how you align with this position.
- Detailed academic CV: Highlight your educational background, research experience, and notable achievements.
- Software portfolio: For example, your GitHub profile, if available.
- Recommendation letters / references: Either two letters of recommendation or contact details of two scientific references.
- The selection committee will review 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 are shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview in March–April 2025.
- If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Dr. Wout Bittremieux (wout.bittremieux@uantwerpen.be) with the email subject “PhD AI for bioinformatics.”