Postdoctoral Researcher in Digital Twin Development for Advanced Bioprocesses
VITO, one of Europe’s leading research centers with 1,300 employees, transforms scientific insights into groundbreaking technological innovations, AI-driven solutions, and policy advice. We do this with one clear goal: to help the world thrive for at least another 1,000 years.
As a science-to-technology partner, we support businesses, governments, and society in their transition toward sustainability. With our multidisciplinary approach and unique laboratory, scaling, and testing infrastructure, we develop practical technological innovations. We accelerate progress toward a regenerative economy within the planet's boundaries, prioritizing electrification and circularity. Additionally, we create smart climate solutions for resilient and secure ecosystems and promote a healthy living environment where people, industry, agriculture, and nature coexist in harmony.
Our employees work in multidisciplinary expert teams across more than 40 research domains. They leverage our unique laboratory and data infrastructure, as well as our extensive network of innovation partners. Through positive transition thinking and in-depth techno-economic analyses, we develop solutions that are not only effective on paper but also in the complex reality of everyday life.
Are you passionate about the future of sustainable bioprocessing and digital innovation? Do you want to work at the forefront of biotechnological research in a dynamic and collaborative environment?
To support and strengthen our growth, we are looking for a:
Post-doc Chemical Engineering for Bioprocesses
The Team
Our multidisciplinary team of 12 researchers and technicians is renowned for its unique expertise and state-of-the-art infrastructure in bioprocess intensification. We are specialized in advanced technologies such as continuous fermentations, membrane-integrated enzymatic and whole-cell systems, and (CO₂) fermentations under elevated pressure.
We are now moving from model-based process optimization to real-time, intelligent process control. To achieve this, we are integrating advanced analytical tools and developing Digital Twins that provide deep insights into process dynamics and enable smart, adaptive control strategies.
To strengthen our team, we are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher who will:
Develop and implement Digital Twins for separation-enhanced bioconversion and gas fermentation processes.
Collaborate closely with experts in bioprocessing, modeling, and control.
Contribute to pioneering research that bridges the gap between digital innovation and sustainable biotechnology.
Your main responsibilities:
Designing and validating mechanistic models to simulate dynamic bioprocess behavior and implement advanced process control strategies—both for standalone systems and those integrated with separation technologies.
Developing Digital Twins by integrating diverse datasets to create accurate, predictive models of complex bioconversion and gas fermentation processes.
Planning and executing bioconversion experiments, leveraging cutting-edge analytical tools to validate and refine your Digital Twin models.
Communicating your findings through clear reporting, impactful presentations, and high-quality scientific publications.
We are seeking:
A motivated and skilled researcher who brings a strong mix of technical expertise, creativity, and collaborative spirit. The ideal candidate will have:
? Education & Expertise
A PhD in (bio)chemical process engineering or a closely related field.
Proven experience in bioprocess modeling and control, with a strong applied focus.
Hands-on experience with process instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
Familiarity with programming and modeling tools such as MATLAB, LabVIEW, and Python.
Ideally, experience with AI and Machine Learning techniques applied to process systems.
? Domain Knowledge
Understanding of industrial biotechnology and alternative feedstock-based processes.
Previous experience in operating bioreactors is a plus.
? Mindset & Soft Skills
A creative and analytical mindset, with a passion for innovation.
Enthusiasm for both experimental lab work and data analysis/reporting.
Strong team player with excellent communication and collaboration skills.
Eagerness to work across disciplines and engage with partners from different sectors.
Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
We offer:
A team of great colleagues, experts in their field, who will guide, support and interact with you
A front-row seat to witness the development of technical solutions for a sustainable world
Access to state-of-art equipment for bioprocess intensification and online monitoring and control
Interesting opportunities to interact with partners in industry and academia
A competitive salary package
? Contract: 1 year, with the possibility of extension to 2 years
? Location: Mol, Belgium
?? Start date: As soon as possible