PhD Position in Microbial Biochemistry for Lignin Valorisation
Develop enzymatic tools for sustainable biological conversion of lignin-derived aromatic compounds in a cutting-edge biochemistry lab.
Best for:Best for Master’s graduates in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related fields with a strong interest in enzyme engineering and sustainable bioprocesses.
Overview
This PhD position at UCLouvain’s Louvain Institute of Biomolecular Sciences and Technology (LIBST) focuses on creating an enzymatic toolkit to biologically valorise aromatic compounds produced during lignin fractionation. The project bridges biochemistry and sustainable chemistry, aiming to transform lignin—a major byproduct of the pulp industry—into valuable biochemicals. The successful candidate will conduct experimental research in microbial biochemistry, contributing to green chemistry solutions. The position is based in Louvain-La-Neuve, Belgium, and offers hands-on experience in enzyme engineering and microbial metabolism. Applicants should be passionate about biotechnology and eager to tackle challenges at the intersection of biology and industrial sustainability.
What you'll do
- Develop and characterise enzymes capable of converting lignin-derived aromatic compounds into high-value biochemicals.
- Investigate microbial metabolic pathways for efficient biotransformation of target compounds.
- Optimise enzymatic reactions and microbial strains for industrial-scale applicability.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to integrate biochemical findings into sustainable bioprocess designs.
- Publish research findings in high-impact scientific journals and present results at international conferences.
- Contribute to the development of novel biocatalysts for green chemistry applications.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related life sciences discipline with a strong biochemistry focus.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent proficiency (written and spoken) required for scientific communication and collaboration.
Instruction: English
- Proven laboratory skills in molecular biology and biochemistry techniques (e.g., cloning, protein expression, enzyme assays).
- Experience with microbial cultivation and genetic manipulation of microorganisms.
- Familiarity with analytical techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, or NMR for biochemical analysis.
- Strong written and oral communication skills in English for scientific reporting and collaboration.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a research team in a collaborative academic environment.
- Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
- No nationality restrictions, but applicants must meet UCLouvain’s admission requirements for PhD programmes.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-31 (Europe/Brussels)
Applicants must submit a single PDF file containing their CV, a motivation letter, and contact details for at least two references. The email subject must read ‘PhD Position Microbial Biochemistry’. Applications are to be sent directly to the supervisor via email.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Contact details for at least two references
Contact
Benoît Desguin· Supervisor
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