Machine Learning Engineer

Application deadline: August 31, 2026

About Us

VIB is a leading life sciences research institute in Flanders, Belgium, with a strong focus on translating basic scientific discoveries into benefits for society. With the launch of VIB.AI, we are expanding our mission to harness the power of artificial intelligence for life sciences research, innovation, and impact.

We are now looking for a Machine Learning (ML) Engineer to join the Machine Learning Expertise Unit at VIB.AI.

Your role

As An ML Engineer, You Will

• Develop and deploy ML solutions in close collaboration with researchers across VIB centers, applying state-of-the-art methods to cutting-edge biomedical questions.
• Design, implement, and evaluate ML and foundation-model approaches, including LLM-based solutions, for scientific text mining, multimodal integration of literature and biological data, and knowledge extraction to support discovery.
• Collaborate with researchers to identify opportunities where generative AI can accelerate scientific progress.
• Work within the Machine Learning Expertise Unit and with VIB AI Studio to translate pilot projects into practical tools.
• Promote ethical, transparent, and responsible use of AI in line with best practices and international standards.
• Leverage VIB Data Core services, including high-performance computing pipelines and large-scale GPU resources, to scale ML development and deployment.
  
  

Your profile

• PhD in machine learning, computer science, computational biology, statistics, or a related field.
• Knowledge of modern deep learning frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, JAX, TensorFlow).
• Experience developing AI applications for scientific or biomedical research, including LLM-based and agentic AI systems, is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively across disciplines and communicate effectively with researchers from different backgrounds.
• A strong interest in applying ML to impactful life science problems.
• We welcome applications from both early-career and experienced ML engineers.
  
  

Our offer

• A stimulating, international, interdisciplinary, collaborative, and supportive work environment, which emphasizes diversity and inclusion.
• An environment that promotes personal development.
• The opportunity to pioneer applications of ML in biomedical sciences.
• Direct access to VIB’s Data Core services, which provide expert support in data management and high-performance computing, including optimized pipelines and large-scale GPU resources.
• A competitive salary and benefits package, with relocation support if needed.

Discover our full range of relocation jobs with comprehensive support packages to help you relocate and settle in your new location.

• The chance to make a lasting impact on science, health, and society.
  
  

About VIB.AI

VIB.AI is the artificial intelligence initiative of VIB, designed to accelerate breakthroughs in life sciences by integrating advanced AI methods into research, discovery, and innovation. For more information, visit vib.ai/en.

How to apply

Please complete the application through the VIB online application tool (https://jobs.vib.be/apply/135914). A complete application file should contain the following documents:

• Your motivation letter stating career goals, past experience, and how these relate
• to the current position.
• Your CV.
• Contact information of three references.
  
  

Application deadline: August 31st 2026.

For further information, please send an email to pedro.goncalves@kuleuven.be, dmitry.kobak@ugent.be or stein.aerts@kuleuven.be with subject title Inquiry: ML Engineer.