KU Leuven Invites Applications for PhD Position on Laser Scatter Imaging for Plant Stress Detection

The MeBioS Research Unit at KU Leuven has invited applications for a PhD position focusing on laser scatter imaging for plant stress detection in greenhouse crops. This interdisciplinary research project combines biophotonics, precision agriculture, artificial intelligence, and sensor technologies to develop next-generation crop monitoring systems for sustainable greenhouse cultivation.

Position Details

Position: PhD Researcher
Institution: KU Leuven
Research Unit: MeBioS (Measure, Model & Manage Bioresponses)
Reference Number: BAP-2026-407
Location: Leuven, Belgium

Research Project

The PhD project aims to develop innovative laser scatter imaging technologies for the early detection of plant stress in greenhouse crops. The research will contribute to intelligent crop monitoring systems that enable optimized greenhouse management through real-time plant health assessment.

The project supports the development of autonomous and sustainable greenhouse cultivation by improving the efficient use of energy, water, nutrients, and labour.

Research Areas

The successful candidate will work on:

Laser scatter imaging and optical sensing
Precision agriculture technologies
Biophotonics and plant phenotyping
Artificial intelligence and deep learning
Data analysis and chemometrics
Smart sensing for greenhouse crop monitoring

Research Environment

The project is hosted by the Biophotonics Group within the MeBioS Research Unit, which conducts cutting-edge research on innovative sensor technologies and data-driven approaches for biological systems.

Research activities include:

Visible/Near-Infrared (Vis/NIR) spectroscopy
THz spectroscopy and imaging
Hyperspectral imaging
Thermography
Smart camera systems
AI-based process monitoring and optimization

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should possess:

A relevant Master's degree qualifying for PhD admission.
Interest in biophotonics, optical sensing, precision agriculture, or related disciplines.
Strong analytical and programming skills.
Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary research environment combining engineering, biology, and data science.

Why Apply?

This PhD position offers an opportunity to:

Conduct cutting-edge research at one of Europe's leading research universities.
Work on innovative optical sensing technologies for sustainable agriculture.
Gain expertise in AI, imaging technologies, and precision agriculture.
Collaborate with an internationally recognized multidisciplinary research team.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application along with all required supporting documents through the official KU Leuven recruitment portal before the application deadline specified in the official advertisement.

Official Notification

Applicants are advised to carefully read the complete official notification for detailed eligibility criteria, application requirements, funding details, and submission guidelines before applying.

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KU Leuven Invites Applications for PhD Position on Laser Scatter Imaging for Plant Stress Detection