Post-Doctoral Researcher Position: AI-Driven Allergen Early Warning Systems for Novel Foods

The Information Technology Group within the Social Science Department at Wageningen University is seeking a talented post-doctoral researcher for a one-year position to work on a cutting-edge research project exploring the role of AI in developing an Allergen Early Warning System (EWS) for novel foods. The successful candidate will contribute to the design and implementation of AI-driven models that enhance food safety by predicting and identifying potential allergens in novel food products.

The position focuses on understanding how AI can support the development of an Allergen Early Warning System (EWS) for novel foods, ensuring high-quality and safe food products. The research will investigate how AI models can predict allergenic risks by analyzing diverse data sources related to food composition, processing, and consumer responses. The AI system developed will utilize advanced techniques such as machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive modeling to detect potential allergens and provide early warnings, enhancing food safety and decision-making in novel food production.

Key Responsibilities:

• Engage stakeholders to identify drivers, indicators, and user requirements through co-creation events and expert consultation.
• Collect and analyze data from public sources and literature to monitor allergen risks in novel foods.
• Develop and implement AI algorithms for identifying emerging allergens using natural language processing and predictive analytics.
• Design, develop, and implement the Allergen Early Warning System (EWS), integrating AI algorithms for real-time monitoring and alerting.

You will work here
This position is based at the Information Technology Group, Social Science Department, Wageningen University.
The mission of the Information Technology Group (INF), led by Prof. dr. ir. Bedir Tekinerdogan, is to advance the field of smart systems engineering and informatics through education, research, and collaboration. We conduct cutting-edge research in AI, data science and software engineering that pushes the boundaries of knowledge and addresses real-world challenges in sustainable energy transition, agri-food, health, business, and society. We work closely with industry, government, and other academic institutions to create a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, where our ideas can have a tangible impact on people’s lives. Our group consists of almost 50 members (staff, post-doc and phd) from all around the world. We offer an inclusive working environment and welcome all international applicants for this position.

Requirements:

You have:

• PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a related field.
• Strong experience in developing AI-driven systems, including real-time monitoring applications.
• Proven expertise in machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive modeling.
• Experience in data collection from diverse sources (e.g., web scraping, media monitoring, databases).
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python and software development for AI integration.
• Knowledge of food safety, allergens, and novel food systems is an advantage.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills for working with stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams.

You also possess:

• PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a related field.

In our international working environment there is an increasing amount of communication in English. For this position it is about language level C1 .

Salary Benefits:

Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include:

• sabbatical leave, study leave, and partially paid parental leave;
• working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance;
• there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee;
• a fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• excellent pension scheme.

In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will of course receive a good salary. Depending on your experience, we offer a competitive gross salary of between € 3.378,- and € 5.331,- for a full-time working week of 38 hours, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU) (scale 10). We offer you a temporary contract for the duration of one year. Of course, we are happy to have a conversation with you if you have any questions about this.

Wageningen University & Research offers plenty of opportunities for growth and development, with a strong internal recruitment policy and excellent training programmes.

You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment. For 20 consecutive years, we have been voted the "best university" in the Netherlands! A place to be proud of.

Coming from abroad
Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large international community and a lot to offer to international employees.

Because we expect you to work and live in the Netherlands our team of advisors on Dutch immigration procedures will help you with the visa application procedures for yourself and, if applicable, for your family.
Feeling welcome also has everything to do with being well informed. Wageningen University & Research's International Community page contains practical information about what we can do to support international employees coming to Wageningen. Furthermore, our Welcome Center can assist you with any additional advice and information about for example housing, opening a bank account, dual career programs or schooling. Finally, certain categories of international staff may be eligible for a tax exemption on a part of their salary during the first five years in the Netherlands.

38 hours per week

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