Interfacing Architecture with Biology : Probiotic Surfaces, Textiles & Materials

Candidate Profile

We seek highly motivated candidates with a background in  design or engineering sciences  and a passion for interdisciplinary research.

The ideal candidate will possess :

• A  master’s degree  awarded after  1 March 2024  or to be obtained before  1 October 2025 , with an excellent academic record.
• Relevant skills in  material design, microbiology, or related fields .
• A strong interest in  bridging architecture, science, and health .
• Collaborative spirit and innovative thinking.
• Language proficiency : Minimum  B2 English  (written / spoken). Non-native speakers must provide proof of competency.

Interfacing Architecture with Biology : Probiotic Surfaces, Textiles & Materials

This collaboration between  BioTeC+  and  RAAD  explores the integration of beneficial microbes into architectural materials to create healthier living spaces. Historically, architecture prioritized sterile environments, but recent advances in microbial ecology highlight the potential of "good" bacteria to suppress pathogens—a paradigm shift termed  probiotic design  or  microbial architecture .

Research Goals :

Interfacing architecture with biology is an emerging field that blends biological principles and living organisms with architectural design to create buildings, spaces, and structures that are more attuned to human health, environmental sustainability, and the natural world. This interdisciplinary approach, called biodesign or biomimicry, combines architecture, biology, engineering, and material science to create innovative, nature-inspired solutions.At KU Leuven / Campus Gent, the research teams BioTeC+ (PI : Prof. Jan F.M. Van Impe) and RAAD (PI : Prof. Rachel Armstrong) are joining forces to explore the integration of beneficial microbes through the development of materials within architectural design to promote healthier living environments. About BioTeC+ The vision of BioTeC+ (Chemical & Biochemical Process Technology & Control) (PI : Prof. Jan F.M. Van Impe) is to consolidate and strengthen both its international research position and its societal impact by focusing on a carefully selected number of research areas and application domains in applied chemistry / chemical and biological process engineering. At present, these application domains can be characterized by the keywords industrial biotechnology, closing the waste / water cycle, and public health. These constitute the pillars (columns) (bio)chemical reactions & reactors, (biological) waste(-water) treatment systems, and predictive microbiology / microbial risk assessment within BioTeC+’s research matrix. This broad range of application domains is supported by our long standing systemic (systems and control) approach towards applied chemistry / chemical and biological process engineering. The research areas (i) systems theory, systems biology and analysis, process model identification (including optimal experimental design), (ii) process monitoring, and (iii) optimization and model based control characterize the transversal rows in the research matrix. These rows constitute the longstanding fundament of BioTeC+’s research covering and underpinning all application domains (pillars). KU Leuven / BioTeC+ runs a state-of-the-art L2 accredited laboratory for experimental predictive microbiology research, as well as high end computing facilities. Our 4 postdocs and 14 PhD researchers are involved in numerous (inter)national research projects and networks, including 6 ongoing EU projects. Full details : https : / / cit.kuleuven.be / biotec About RAAD Regenerative Architecture, Arts, and Design (RAAD) is an ambitious research group at the forefront of architectural innovation. Our team embodies a fundamentally transdisciplinary approach, developing nature-based techniques and systems that redefine the practice of the built environment. We draw on diverse expertise, integrating the sciences of living systems with next-generation sustainable materials and services. RAAD's pioneering work is grounded in the principles of regenerative architecture, which merges living materials - those that possess characteristics such as growth, self-movement, and metabolism - with bioreceptive interfaces and advanced sustainable architectural methodologies. Our research aims to achieve beneficial environmental impacts that surpass Net Zero targets. Our practice is inherently interdisciplinary and collaborative, operating at the intersection of science, design, and society. We are dedicated to designing applications that embody the first generation of regenerative architecture, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable building practices. Through our innovative approach, RAAD is setting new standards in architectural research and development, driving the future of eco-conscious design. ] Full details : https : / / architectuur.kuleuven.be / regenerative-architecture-arts-design We look forward to welcome you on our campus in the vibrant city of Gent, Belgium!Join us in this exciting venture to transform architectural practices through the innovative integration of beneficial microbes into a range of materials, surfaces and spaces, to establish the principles for healthier, more sustainable living environments that fundamentally promote a good quality of life!We offer :

Next to the usual application documents as requested at the KU Leuven website (include your CV and any relevant publications or portfolio work), interested candidates are invited to submit a 3-page proposal outlining their interpretation of this call and detailing a project they would work on throughout the duration of their doctoral studies. The proposal should include the following elements.

Also include a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and motivation for applying to this position.