PhD position: Metabolic modeling of bacterial interactions The Laboratory of Microbial Systems Biology (http://tinyurl.com/MicrobialSysBio) is looking for a motivated PhD candidate who is interested in investigating microbial communities through metabolic modeling. The young lab, started in 2016, is part of the Molecular Bacteriology unit at the Rega Institute and aims at improving our understanding of microbial community structure and dynamics. The PhD position is funded through an ERC starting grant. Project While metabolic models have been successfully applied to describe the behavior of bacteria grown in mono-culture, their extension to several interacting bacterial strains is a field of active research. The goal of this PhD is to develop and evaluate approaches based on metabolic modeling to predict bacterial interactions. In addition, we want to apply metabolic modeling to predict the behavior of bacterial communities growing in well-defined conditions. Profile The candidate should have a solid background in systems biology. Knowledge of metabolic modeling or metabolic network analysis is a plus. Applicants should have a Master degree in systems biology, bioinformatics or equivalent with at least a distinction, obtained in January 2019 at the latest. A proof of proficiency in English is a requirement. Offer -full-time 4-year contract -enrolment at one of the top universities in Europe -exciting research environment -competitive salary Interested? Please submit a cover letter, a CV including obtained grades, and a list with at least two references (with name, function, email, address and phone number) through the online application tool (https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/54798210). You can apply for this position no later than 1st December, 2018. The PhD will start in January 2019. For more information, please contact Karoline Faust at: karoline.faust@kuleuven.be