PhD localized delivery of beneficial microbiomes promoting oral biofilm's health

Organisation & Research Field

KU LEUVEN – Biological sciences >
Biological engineering;
Engineering >
Chemical engineering

First Stage Researcher (R1) – Temporary, Full‑time, starting 1 May 2026. Final date to receive applications: 19 Mar 2026 23:59 UTC. Country:
Belgium. Reference Number: BAP-.

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that damages teeth‑supporting tissue, and associates with a dysbiotic shift in the dental biofilm microbiome. More than 50% of adults suffer from this inflammation at some point during their lifetime. Periodontitis is also a major contributor to the establishment and progression of systemic and chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Current treatment focusses on dental plaque removal through scaling and root planning, complemented with antibiotics treatment.

Unfortunately, often only temporal pathogenic reduction is observed and concerns on microbial resistance to antibiotics are rising. This doctoral research project aims for localized delivery of beneficial microbiomes to support robust healthy biofilm development. The project encompasses (i) electrospinning and defining formulations with desired properties, (ii) in silico microbiome design based on systems biology network analysis, and (iii) in vitro validation in a (in‑house developed) biofilm bioreactor system.

• Design and conduct electrospinning experiments to produce polymer coatings with desired properties.
• Perform in silico microbiome design using systems biology network analysis and flux balance modelling.
• Carry out in‑vitro validation studies in a biofilm bioreactor system.
• Plan, execute, and document experiments and results.
• Collaborate with team members and manage the research project independently.

• Master’s degree in (bio) chemical engineering, bioscience engineering, or related degrees.
• Experience in microbiological culturing and analysis techniques; experience in biofilm development and analysis is considered an asset.
• Knowledge of systems biology techniques, such as genome‑scale metabolic network modelling and flux balance analysis.
• Experience with electrospinning (or other polymer processing) techniques is a plus.
• Advanced command of both spoken and written English is mandatory.
• PhD fellowship to obtain a PhD in Chemical Engineering is offered.
• A passion for research, a critical mindset, and strong teamwork skills.

• We will support you in all aspects in order to successfully run your research project.
• You will be given opportunities to participate at national and international meetings and establish your network.
• KU Leuven offers a competitive and international working environment with access to the latest technologies and expertise.
• KU Leuven ranks among the top 100 universities in the world in major ranking tables. The university commits to creating an inclusive, respectful and safe environment for both working and living.
• Leuven is a lively, historic university city with a large international and diverse student community and located only 30 min from Brussels.

You should upload a detailed Curriculum Vitae and transcript of courses together with a concise letter of motivation in the online portal. For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Kristel Bernaerts, mail: k