Professor in Food Microbiology: Applications of microbes in the food chain
KU Leuven is an autonomous university, founded in 1425, and has grown within the Catholic tradition.
In the Science, Engineering and Technology Group of KU Leuven, there is a full-time academic vacancy in the area of Food Microbiology in Leuven (campus Arenberg). We are looking for internationally oriented candidates with an excellent research record and educational competence within the field of food microbiology. The new colleague will be hosted in the Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems (M²S), Centre of Food and Microbial Technology (CFMT), and in the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering (FBSE). CFMT focuses on raw materials, microorganisms, and processes relevant to various bio-industries and the food industry. The research activities span the continuum from raw materials to consumption and adopt a multidisciplinary approach. CFMT research groups have a solid research infrastructure and represent a supportive work environment. FBSE organises Dutch and English language study programmes at various academic levels in Bioscience Engineering and Food Science.
Duties
Research
Microorganisms are omnipresent throughout the food production chain and significantly impact food safety and quality. Some cause food deterioration or foodborne illness, while others are used for producing food ingredients and safe fermented foods. There is a need to transform food production to address climate change and noncommunicable diet-related diseases, and microbes have potential to address this dual challenge.
We welcome applications from candidates who can set up an innovative and internationally oriented research program aimed at elucidating the role and directing the use of microbes in the food chain. Possible uses include the production of fermented foods, food enzymes, bioconversion of side streams into valuable foods, and biocontrol of pathogens. Research programs integrating fundamental and applied components are particularly encouraged.
Additionally, we expect the following from successful candidates:
1. You strengthen existing research lines and provide additional expertise.
2. You strive for excellence in research and publish at the highest scientific level.
3. You set up collaborations with colleagues and the national and international scientific community.
4. You acquire competitive research funding for fundamental and applied research.
5. You supervise PhD projects of an international level.
Teaching
You ensure high-quality education in food science and technology, particularly in food microbiology, microbial fermentation, and food safety. You also contribute to the pedagogic project of the faculty/university through supervision of master theses and as a promoter of PhD students. The scope of your teaching task is limited in the first years of your appointment, with a balance between research and teaching time safeguarded.
Service
You are prepared to provide services to the scientific community and internal functioning of the department, faculty, and KU Leuven. You will take an active role in councils and committees.
Profile
1. You have a MSc. in Microbiology, Food Science, Bioscience Engineering, or a related field and a PhD in food microbiology or microbial fermentation.
2. You have a strong background in the physiology, ecology, and genetics of food-related bacteria.
3. You have a strong scientific track record proven by publications in leading journals.
4. You possess the capacity to lead a research team and attract funding.
5. Teaching experience is an advantage.
6. You possess organisational skills and a cooperative attitude.
7. Good command of English is required; Dutch language training is provided if necessary.
Offer
We offer full-time employment in an intellectually challenging environment. Depending on your qualifications, you will be appointed as assistant professor, associate professor, or professor. Junior researchers are appointed on a tenure track for a period of 5 years.
For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Chris Michiels at chris.michiels@kuleuven.be or Prof. dr. ir. Ann Van Loey at ann.vanloey@kuleuven.be.
You can submit your application through our online application system. Add to your application the following documents:
1. Your biosketch (maximum 2 pages).
2. A file on your five most important publications.
3. An extensive curriculum vitae including a full publication list.
4. Your research plan (maximum 5 pages).
5. Your vision on academic education (maximum 2 pages).
6. Your contribution to society (maximum 1 page).
7. Your vision on leadership (maximum 1 page).
KU Leuven is committed to creating a diverse environment and encourages candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. We strive for an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment.
Job details
Title: Professor in Food Microbiology: Applications of microbes in the food chain
Application deadline: 2024-12-12 23:59 (Europe/Brussels)
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