The VIB Center for AI & Computational Biology (VIB.AI) and Ghent University are searching for two Principal Investigators to join their faculty (Group Leader at VIB, Professor at UGent). We are particularly interested in recruiting faculty members who use and develop artificial intelligence methods and mechanistic mathematical models to address fundamental questions in biology and/or in human health and disease.
We welcome applications across all domains of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and associated fields. Examples of research topics include but are not limited to: development of new AI architectures for biology and hybrid models that combine deep learning with mechanistic models; foundation models of genome regulation using single-cell and spatial multi-omics data; AI-based modeling of protein structure and protein interaction networks; AI-based modelling of cell morphology and tissue function using imaging and computer vision.
With regards to biological questions, we are particularly seeking candidates to cover two specific areas of life sciences:

• Plant biotechnology, biodiversity, and ecosystems. Research can include AI-driven modeling across scales (from genotype to phenotype), AI-driven studies of biodiversity at the molecular level, and AI modeling in molecular ecology and evolution. We also welcome candidates with applied projects including developing AI-driven tools for precision agriculture or biodiversity conservation. This professor position will be affiliated with the Faculty of Sciences, Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics at Ghent University. The successful candidate is expected to provide computer science education in data structures and algorithms and to attract computer science students for master's theses and Ph D research through their own research efforts. At VIB, we encourage collaboration between VIB.AI and other centers. AI-driven researchers in these domains can be co-affiliated with the VIB Center for Plant Systems Biology (PSB).
• Biomedical sciences and human disease. Research can include AI-driven modeling of human disease processes, digital twin applications, immunology, neuroscience, cancer, imaging and other biomedical fields. We also welcome applicants with applied projects, including drug discovery through protein modelling, protein design, synthetic biology, AI-driven experiments (experiment-in-the-loop), and bio-engineering. Additionally, researchers with an interest in AI based modelling on clinical data, including diagnostics and medical imaging, are encouraged to apply. This Professor position will be affiliated to the Faculty of Medicine and Heath Sciences, at Ghent University. At VIB, we encourage collaboration between VIB.AI and other centers. AI-driven researchers in these domains can be co-affiliated with the VIB Center for Inflammation Research (IRC) or the VIB Center for Medical Biotechnology (CMB).

Both positions come with full salary and core funding (internationally competitive package) that is renewable for multiple additional 5-year periods, and access to state-of-the-art research and top-notch support core facilities, as well as support to attract talented Ph D students and postdocs from across the world.

Assignment

Research. As a VIB Group Leader and UGent Professor, you will be expected to build and develop your research program with your own independent research group. You will also establish or strengthen a robust network with other researchers within VIB, UGent, and beyond. Striving for excellence in your research, you will contribute to the scientific development of the VIB.AI center.
Teaching. The candidate will be appointed to the Faculty of Sciences or the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and will take up teaching assignments in English or Dutch. You will ensure high-quality education with a clear commitment to the overall quality of the program. Additionally, you will contribute to the university's pedagogic project by supervising MSc theses and serving as a promoter for Ph D students.
Service. You provide scientific, societal and internal services that contribute to the reputation of the entire VIB and university.

Your profile

• Ph D or equivalent experience in machine learning or a related quantitative field (Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Statistics, Mathematics, Physics, Computational Biology/Chemistry).
• Candidates will be considered at junior or more senior levels assuming relevant experience in foundational machine learning research and/or applied machine learning in an academic and/or industrial setting (post-doctoral).
• Excellent machine learning and programming experience.
• Published impactful research, demonstrates creativity, originality and addresses relevant problems in biology & computational research.
• Demonstrated ability to acquire competitive funding.
• Interdisciplinary mindset and keen on collaborating broadly in the center, the department and the university.
• Motivated to guide postdoctoral researchers, Ph D interns, and full-time scientists.
• International working experience.
• Excellent communication skills in English.
• The official administrative language at UGent is Dutch. If you do not speak Dutch or are not proficient at the beginning of your employment, VIB and UGent will offer language training. You are required to achieve a CEFR-level of B2 in Dutch within five years of starting your appointment. More info: Language requirements at Ghent University for professorial staff — Ghent University (ugent.be)

We offer

• Substantial core research funding that is renewable every 5 years.
• An attractive employment package including 100% of your salary and excellent health benefits.
• Access to a vibrant academic environment that encourages collaboration with top experts in biology, biotechnology, medicine, computational biology, mathematics and computer science both at VIB and UGent.
• Access to a highly talented pool of students in biology, biomedical, computational biology, mathematics and computer science from the UGent bachelor and master programs.
• State-of-the-art research space.
• Access to computing cluster infrastructure at the VIB Data Core and Flemish Supercomputer Center.
• Access to excellent and staffed core facilities at the Center, at VIB, and UGent (including sequencing, proteomics, single-cell, microscopy, data core, and many more).
• Possibility to also perform wet lab activities in state-of-the-art infrastructure.
• Broad administrative support, including help recruiting technicians, Ph D students and post-doc scientists for your group.
• Access to a dedicated business development team specialized in technology transfer and valorization.
• Professional leadership training.
• An internationally recognized workplace that values diversity, promotes an inclusive environment.
• Help with relocation and establishing a life in Belgium, including visa application (if necessary), and finding housing, schooling and daycare.
• The successful candidate should also be selected for Professor at UGent.

About the VIB Center for AI and Computational Biology
VIB (Flanders Institute for Biotechnology) is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute, with a clear focus on ground-breaking strategic basic research in life sciences and operates in close partnership with the five universities in Flanders. VIB strives for a respectful and supportive working environment and a culture of belonging for diverse talents in the organization.
VIB.AI was established in 2023 as the 10th VIB center, with the core mission to study fundamental problems in biology by combining machine learning with in-depth knowledge of biological processes. We aim to work towards foundation models and integrative theories of biological systems, and towards innovative AI-driven biotech applications in synthetic biology, agro-tech, and personalized medicine. AI-driven research at VIB.AI starts from biological questions and challenges that are addressed using state-of-the-art and novel computational and AI strategies, through close interactions and iterations with biological experiments and research labs within VIB.AI and across VIB. Additionally, we are committed to fostering computational and AI research excellence across all VIB Centers, amplifying collaboration (14 co-affiliated GLs) and pushing the boundaries of innovation in all of VIB’s research domains (plant biology, cancer biology, structural biology, medical biotechnology, neuroscience, immunology and microbiology).
Ghent University
This position is linked with a professor position at UGent. Depending on the profile and research focus, the position corresponds to a faculty at UGent, either the Faculty of Sciences or the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, with one position available in each faculty.
Faculty of Sciences
The Faculty of Sciences serves as a central hub for scientific research and education, engaging in cutting-edge research across diverse disciplines, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences. The Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, and Statistics currently employs 16 permanent professors. Their research encompasses both fundamental and applied studies, with a focus on interdisciplinary work in mathematics, computer science, and statistics. The department is involved in the Bachelor/Master programs in Mathematics and Computer Science, as well as the Master after Master program in Statistical Data Analysis. It is also responsible for courses taught in study programs of other faculties.
Faculty of Medicine and Heath Sciences
The Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Ghent University is a vibrant academic community dedicated to advancing medical knowledge, healthcare, and scientific research. In addition to exploring the intricacies of the human body, the faculty seeks practical tools to promote health and wellbeing in society. It has 10 departments, each housing numerous research groups with their own specific focuses, extensive research infrastructure, and expertise.
The UGent Life Sciences eco-system and city of Ghent
Ghent, the second largest city of Flanders, is a university city and cultural hub. Only half an hour away from Antwerp and Brussels by train, and centrally located in Europe, Ghent has a scenic yet cozy, well-preserved historical center and a lively multi-cultural atmosphere. Ghent and the greater region of Flanders is internationally-oriented and tech-minded with a strong biotechnology sector with spin-offs and start-ups, creating a natural home for researchers and their families. English is very widely spoken in the city and surrounding area. Ghent is home to Ghent University, a top 100 university, founded in 1817 and one of the major universities in Belgium. The university credo is ‘Dare to Think’, challenging everyone to question conventional views and to dare to take a nuanced stand. Ghent University is a pluralistic university, which means it is open to all, regardless of ideological, political, cultural, or social background. Ghent and its surrounding area are a great place for young people and families to live and to raise children. There are many excellent day care centers and schools, including an international school.
Start date: Q4 2025 or Q1 2026

How to apply

Please use the VIB HR application tool and upload

• a cover/motivation letter
• your full CV with publication list
• a 1-2 page biosketch including your top 5 publications or achievements
• a 2-4 page statement of your research plan including a brief statement reflecting your vision for the new VIB.AI center
• a 1 page statement about your vision on teaching, outreach, and technology transfer (valorization)
• contact details of 3 referees

Application deadline: 1st November 2024
VIB.AI is also extending its team in Leuven, where two Principal Investigator positions are currently open. You can find more information about the Leuven vacancies here.
VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology is also seeking a Group Leader: AI in Plant Biology, co-affiliated to VIB.AI. You can find more information about the PSB vacancy here.
For more information
If you have any questions about the positions or need assistance in determining which location would be the best fit for your lab, please do not hesitate to contact Stein Aerts (stein.aerts@vib.be) Science director at VIB.AI.