Job Description
This study explores how plant-based purées can be naturally texturized using the inherent properties of fruits and vegetables. By experimenting with different processing methods and their order of application, the research aims to create nutrient-rich purées specifically tailored for individuals with swallowing difficulties, thereby minimizing the need for artificial additives and their potential side effects.
The primary objective is to investigate how food composition, processing techniques, and their sequencing influence the textural qualities of fruit- and vegetable-based purées. This work supports the increasing demand for natural, functional, and eco-friendly plant-based foods while promoting food waste reduction and a more sustainable food system.
Your work will focus on:
• Compositional analyses (e.g., spectrophotometric and chromatographic techniques)
• Microscopic analyses (e.g., widefield fluorescence microscopy)
• Rheological analyses
• Tribological analyses
• Statistical analysis
Your responsibilities are:
• You will design and characterize fruit- and vegetable-based purées using various processing techniques and sequences
• You will study the structural and textural properties of the fruit- and vegetable-based purées
• You will perform statistical analysis on the data obtained
• You will supervise bachelor’s and master’s students
• You will report your data to your supervisors, other researchers, as well as at (international) conferences
Profile
A PhD candidate should fulfil the following requirements:
• You have a Master’s degree cum laude in Bioscience Engineering, Food Science & Technology or related discipline
• You are highly motivated to do research in a dynamic research environment
• You have an interest in food science and basic knowledge of rheological analyses
• You are communicative, creative, eager to learn, and able to work independently as well as part of a team
• You are passionate about research with a critical, analytical, and innovative mindset
• You are familiar with general laboratory practices and have attention to detail
• You have good communication skills in written and spoken English
• You are proficient in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams
Offer
We offer:
• An attractive, fully funded scholarship for 4 years of PhD research with multiple benefits (health insurance, access to university infrastructure and sports facilities, etc.), continuation after the first year depends on a positive evaluation. Starting period: September/October 2025.
• The opportunity to develop scientific and personal skills via participation at trainings, workshops, and conferences (more information can be found here: https://set.kuleuven.be/phd/dopl/whytraining).
• Supervision by recognized experts and access to (beyond) state-of-the-art research and infrastructure
• A stay in a vibrant environment in the heart of Europe. The university is located in Leuven, a town of approximately 100,000 inhabitants, close to Brussels (25 km), and 20 minutes by train from Brussels International Airport. This strategic positioning and the strong presence of the university, international research centers, and industry lead to a safe town with a high quality of life, a warm welcome to non-Dutch speaking people, and ample opportunities for social and sports activities. The mixture of cultures and research fields is one of the ingredients that make the University of Leuven the most innovative university in Europe. Further information can be found on the university website: https://www.kuleuven.be/english/kuleuven/.
• KU Leuven (University of Leuven) has been a learning center for nearly six centuries. Today, it is Belgium’s most prominent and highest-ranked university. It was founded in 1425 and is one of Europe’s oldest and most renowned universities. The university caters to over 60,000 students from more than 140 countries. KU Leuven’s three doctoral schools offer internationally oriented PhD tracks for over 4,000 postgraduate students. KU Leuven and affiliated knowledge institutes provide fertile ground for innovation and high-tech entrepreneurship in the Leuven region. The favorable climate for knowledge-driven entrepreneurship and innovation makes the Leuven region an attractive destination for many high-tech companies.
Interested?
Are you interested?
The application should be submitted exclusively through the KU Leuven portal; a separate email is not required.
Applications (in English) should include the following five elements:
1. CV (contact details, education, work experience, prizes/awards, language skills, etc.)
2. Official academic transcript of BSc. and MSc. studies
3. Motivational letter describing research career goals (e.g., why doing a PhD, long-term ambitions), skills (hard and soft skills), and relevant experiences
4. Full contact details of two reference persons
5. Short assignment (required part of the application!): Write a brief text (max. 1 A4 page) outlining your vision on the role of processing in the development of plant-based foods.
You may reflect on how processing contributes to product quality, functionality, nutrition, or sustainability, and what opportunities or challenges you see in this area. You are welcome to include a concrete example (e.g., an ingredient, technology, or product) to illustrate your perspective. I am particularly interested in your thinking on how processing can support innovation in plant-based food, now and in the future.
You can apply for this job no later than July 16, 2025 via the online application tool
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.
Heb je een vraag over de online sollicitatieprocedure? Raadpleeg onze veelgestelde vragen of stuur een e-mail naar solliciteren@kuleuven.be
