Are you an international student passionate about environmental sustainability, precision agriculture, and AI-driven research? Ghent University, one of Europe’s leading research institutions, is offering two fully funded PhD positions in Environmental Science through the prestigious Horizon Europe NitroScope project. This is a unique opportunity to begin your doctoral journey in a world-class academic environment while contributing to global sustainable development goals.
📌 Program Overview
- University: Ghent University, Belgium
- Faculty: Bioscience Engineering – Department of Environment
- PhD Start Date: November 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: May 19, 2025
- Funding: Fully funded (salary + travel + research expenses)
- Contract Type: Full-time, 4-year doctoral fellowship
- Eligibility: Open to international candidates
🧪 Available PhD Positions in Environmental Science
1. PhD in Variable Rate Fertilization & Manure Application (AI-Powered Precision Agriculture)
This PhD focuses on optimizing nitrogen use efficiency in agricultural systems using advanced technologies. The project integrates AI, multi-sensor platforms, and real-time analytics to monitor and manage soil and fertilizer inputs.
Key Research Areas:
- AI and machine learning for modeling soil nutrient dynamics
- Real-time sensing using spectroscopy and electrochemical systems
- Monitoring of Nâ‚‚O emissions and nitrate levels in organic fertilizers
Eligibility Criteria:
- Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Agricultural/Biosystems Engineering, Data Science, or Soil Science
- Experience with Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW
- Strong problem-solving skills and fieldwork readiness
2. PhD in Monitoring Soil Nitrogen Dynamics Using Spectroscopy & AI
This research aims to enhance sustainable soil management by analyzing the nitrogen cycle using NIR/MIR spectroscopy and AI-driven data modeling. It supports EU environmental policy and sustainable farming practices.
Key Research Areas:
- Near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy
- Soil nitrogen cycling and AI-based predictive modeling
- Integration of data science with soil science
Eligibility Criteria:
- Master’s in Soil Science, Data Science, Mechatronics, or a related field
- Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or C++
- Basic understanding of sensors and AI modeling techniques
🌟 Why Choose Ghent University for Your PhD?
Ghent University is globally recognized for its excellence in environmental science, agriculture, and engineering. As part of the NitroScope Horizon Europe project, you’ll benefit from:
- Collaboration with 25+ international partners
- Funded travel opportunities across Europe
- A dynamic, interdisciplinary research network
- 36 paid vacation days per year
- Eco vouchers and bike allowance
- Tax-free PhD salary in Belgium
📬 How to Apply for the PhD at Ghent University
Submit your application by May 19, 2025 via email to:
📧 Dr. Muhammad Qaswar – muhammad.qaswar@ugent.be
CC: abdul.mouazen@ugent.be, stefaan.deneve@ugent.be
📄 Application Documents Required:
- Cover letter (highlighting motivation and research experience)
- Updated CV with publications (if any)
- Two academic references (preferred)
- MSc degree certificate or proof of enrollment
- Verified transcripts of MSc and BSc
🚫 Note: Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
🔗 Explore More Academic Opportunities
If you’re interested in AI in agriculture, soil science, or sustainable development, these PhD roles are perfect for you. Start your career in a research-intensive environment with global impact.
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👉 Apply now and join the future of sustainable agriculture at Ghent University!