Location: University of Liège, Belgium
Funding: Fully funded for 4 years
Application Deadline: Rolling (starting September 1, 2025)
Start Date: October 2025 or later
Overview: AI Meets Genomics
Are you passionate about artificial intelligence, deep learning, and genomic science? The University of Liège is offering two fully funded PhD opportunities in an exciting interdisciplinary project that combines interpretable machine learning with genomic data analysis in both plants and animals.
This innovative research brings together three prestigious teams:
- Montefiore Institute (AI & ML) – Professors Pierre Geurts and Anh Huynh-Thu
- Unit of Animal Genomics – GIGA – Dr. Tom Druet
- Translational Plant Biology Lab – InBioS – Professor Marc Hanikenne
Research Focus
This cutting-edge project aims to bridge AI and genomics through two major scientific objectives:
1. Enhancing Genomic Prediction
- Develop deep learning models for predicting complex traits in cattle and Chlamydomonas reinhardtii using genomic sequence data.
2. Understanding Gene Regulation Under Stress
- Apply single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and AI models to uncover:
- Gene regulatory networks
- Differentially expressed genes
- Regulatory variants under environmental stress
Key Research Areas
- Interpretable & explainable AI
- Knowledge-guided deep learning
- Deep learning-based gene network modeling
- Multi-omics integration
- Feature importance in genomic prediction
Why Join This PhD Program?
- Full funding for 4 years
- Start as early as October 1, 2025
- Collaborate with world-class experts in AI, plant and animal genomics, bioinformatics, and systems biology
- Work on real-world biological datasets
- Access to high-performance computing resources
- Engage in a vibrant, international research environment
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have:
- MSc or equivalent in:
- Machine learning, computer science, or data modeling
- Genomics (plant or animal), bioinformatics, or systems biology
- Strong skills in:
- Machine learning and deep learning
- Genomic data analysis
- Excellent English communication skills
- Interest in interdisciplinary and international collaboration
About the Host Institutions
- Montefiore Institute: Leading AI and machine learning research hub.
- GIGA – Unit of Animal Genomics: Focuses on genetic dissection of traits in livestock and humans.
- Translational Plant Biology Lab – InBioS: Specializes in plant stress responses and systems biology.
Application Process
Deadline: Rolling (applications open September 1, 2025)
Start Date: October 2025 or later (flexible)
To apply, submit:
- CV
- Motivation letter outlining your research interests and fit for the project
- List of referees with contact details
Send your application via email to the project coordinators.
Early applications are strongly encouraged. Positions remain open until filled.