Junior AI Engineer

About the role

The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology is seeking a Junior AI Engineer to join its interdisciplinary team. You will work closely with plant scientists and computational biologists to develop AI methods that streamline data acquisition, analysis workflows, and integrate agentic AI into the research pipeline.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement machine‑learning and AI solutions, including deep learning, large language models, and computer‑vision applications.
• Collaborate with domain experts to translate biological questions into computational pipelines.
• Maintain high‑quality Python code, manage version control with Git, and ensure thorough documentation and verification.
• Support data‑management processes and contribute to the integration of hardware, software, and algorithms where needed.
• Provide technical guidance and knowledge sharing to non‑AI team members.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics or a related field.
• Strong background in machine learning and AI, with hands‑on experience in deep learning, LLMs, and computer vision.
• Proficiency in Python and Git, with a focus on software quality and user‑friendliness.
• Excellent problem‑solving abilities and capacity to work autonomously while collaborating effectively.
• Fluent written and spoken English and a genuine interest in plant science and molecular biology.

Required skills

• Python
• Git
• Machine Learning
• Deep Learning
• Large Language Models (LLMs)
• Computer Vision
• Data Management

What we offer

• Access to state‑of‑the‑art imaging and high‑performance computing facilities.
• Opportunities to work in a rapidly evolving AI field within a top research institute.
• Dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international team environment.
• Competitive salary package with benefits and ample chances to acquire new skills.