Are you passionate about sustainable agriculture, agroecological innovation, and soil health? KU Leuven, one of Europe’s leading research universities, invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in Agroecology and Soil Health, with a focus on tropical banana cropping systems.
This cutting-edge doctoral opportunity aims to improve nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) using ecological, genetic, and molecular tools, directly impacting food security and sustainable farming practices in tropical regions.
🔬 Research Focus: Agroecology in Tropical Banana Systems
Hosted at KU Leuven’s Laboratory of Tropical Crop Improvement, this PhD project investigates biological nitrification inhibition (BNI) and other ecological processes that can significantly reduce nitrogen loss and enhance soil health in banana agrosystems.
You’ll engage in both laboratory research and tropical field trials, supported by an international partnership with the Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT.
🎯 Key PhD Objectives
- ✅ Screen banana germplasm for BNI (Biological Nitrification Inhibition) traits
- ✅ Analyze soil microbial activity and the role of organic fertilizers
- ✅ Conduct field trials in tropical regions to validate lab findings
- ✅ Integrate soil biology, plant genetics, and systems ecology for real-world agroecological solutions
🌍 Why This PhD Is a Game-Changer
1. Global Impact on Food Security
Bananas are a critical food crop worldwide, especially for smallholder farmers in Latin America and Africa. Your research will have direct, real-world applications in these communities.
2. International Field Access
Collaborate with tropical field research hubs through the Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT—gain experience beyond the lab.
3. Expert Mentorship
Work under the guidance of top scientists like Prof. Hervé Vanderschuren (KU Leuven) and Dr. Sébastien Carpentier (Bioversity International).
4. Advanced Research Tools
Utilize cutting-edge phenotyping platforms, molecular biology labs, and soil bioassay systems.
5. Career & Skill Development
Get comprehensive support from the Arenberg Doctoral School—including training in data analysis, science communication, policy engagement, and publishing.
🧑🎓 Candidate Eligibility
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent European qualification) in one of the following fields:
- Bioscience Engineering
- Biology or Biochemistry
- Agricultural Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Or a closely related discipline
Preferred Skills:
- Background in molecular biology, soil microbiology, or plant biochemistry
- Strong command of English (written and spoken)
- Proven academic excellence at BSc and MSc levels
- Willingness to work in both laboratory and field settings
- Must be eligible for FWO PhD funding (Belgium) in 2026
🏛️ About the Host Institutions
🔹 KU Leuven – Division of Crop Biotechnics
Belgium’s top-ranked university, KU Leuven is renowned for excellence in plant science, housing the world’s largest banana gene bank, and working with CGIAR, global NGOs, and government partners.
🔹 The Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT
A leading force in agroecological and biodiversity research, coordinating field trials across multiple tropical countries, offering vital real-world validation for research findings.
💼 What’s Included in the PhD Offer?
- 🕓 4-year full-time doctoral position
- 💰 Competitive salary per KU Leuven scales
- 🏥 Social benefits: health insurance, family allowance, bonuses
- 🌐 Funding for conferences, publications, and international mobility
- 🎓 Career coaching and soft skill workshops
📅 Application Deadline: September 30, 2025
Submit your application via KU Leuven’s official job portal:
👉 [Apply Now] (insert hyperlink to application page)
Your application should include:
- Updated CV (with academic results and contact details)
- Motivation letter
- BSc and MSc transcripts
- References or contact information (if available)
📩 Need More Information?
Reach out directly to the supervisors:
- Prof. Hervé Vanderschuren – KU Leuven
- Dr. Sébastien Carpentier – Bioversity International
🌿 Transform Agriculture, Elevate Soil Health, and Make a Global Impact
This is more than a PhD—it’s your chance to contribute to sustainable farming, climate resilience, and biodiversity in tropical agriculture. If you’re driven by science, sustainability, and global development, this opportunity is your next big step.