Job Opportunities

Vacancy for an Academic position in Multiscale Physics in Biological Systems at K.U.Leuven

K.U.Leuven invites applications for a full-time tenured academic position in multiscale physics of biological systems at the Department of Biosystems. We are looking for a dynamic and motivated individual (m/f) with an excellent research record in various aspects of multiscale physics as applied to living systems, and who is able to teach courses within biosystems engineering.

Duties Include:

Research
Successful candidates are expected to develop an excellent research program of their own in the area of multiscale physics of biological systems, to achieve a scientific output that adheres to the highest international standards, to realise major breakthroughs in this area, and to exploit the research results in industrial applications.

The candidate should be able to establish his/her own multidisciplinary research group on working principles and mathematical modelling of biophysical aspects of living systems (animal, plant, human) from the nano- to the macroscale. Special attention will be paid to the development and application of novel, advanced measurement techniques (including optical techniques) to measure biological material properties at these different length scales. Practical applications are envisaged in the area of (but not limited to) biosystems engineering, and in particular processes involving living organisms (animal, plant, human). Valorisation is expected through existing national and international networks of the Department of Biosystems.

Teaching
Accepted applicants will take on teaching responsibilities in biosystems engineering and bionanotechnology. They are expected to meet the reigning K.U.Leuven standards regarding academic program level and orientation and to adhere to the K.U.Leuven’s concept of education. A commitment to quality of education as a whole is required.

Qualifications
Interested candidates should hold a Ph.D. or doctoral degree in bioscience engineering, engineering or equivalent. The candidate has a broad knowledge in the field of multiscale physics of biological systems and is an international expert in multidisciplinary research related with the interaction between biology and engineering applications. This expertise includes mechanical and optical measurement techniques of material properties of biological systems at different scales. Expertise in mathematical modelling, simulation and statistical data processing techniques as well as knowledge on cell biology are essential prerequisites. Moreover, proven experience with mechatronics (both at hardware and software level) is also required.

Qualified candidates are expected to have an excellent research record and very good teaching and training skills, in order to contribute to the research output of the department and to the quality of its educational program. The high quality of the candidate's research should be evidenced by publications in international peer-reviewed journals. International research experience is highly appreciated.

At K.U.Leuven the main language of instruction is Dutch. Successful applicants who are not proficient in Dutch, will be provided language training in order to be able to also instruct in the Dutch language within three years time.

Near-native proficiency in the English language is expected of all applicants.

Applicants must submit a 5-page research plan. Applicants are requested to simultaneously go through the first step of the application for research professor (BOF Fund K.U.Leuven).

Contact person: Prof. Bruno Goddeeris, department chair, email: Click for email

Applications should be made using the electronic registration facility at http://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/vacatures/bioscience.html
Should you encounter any problems with the electronic registration, please contact Katoe Buyle
e-mail: Click for email , tel: +32 (0)16 328 324.

The K.U.Leuven pursues a policy of equal opportunity and diversity. Applications will be accepted until 30 September 2009