PhD in phytosanitary inspection of horticultural products based on innovative X-ray imaging and deep learning

Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium

Updated: almost 2 years ago
Deadline: 01 Aug 2022

(ref. BAP-2022-436)

Laatst aangepast : 27/06/2022

The lab of Prof. Nicolai consists of a team of young, dynamic and enthusiastic researchers that investigate processes and technology for improving quality of horticultural products such as fruit and vegetables, , with a strong engineering approach. We offer a stimulating work environment for those who are interested in scientific research on the verge of fundamental and applied research, with a high relevance to making a more sustainable world. KU Leuven is a world-class university and ranked 42 on the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and ranks 7 on Reuters Most Innovative Universities Worldwide (being No. 1 in Europe).


Project
Infestations of horticultural products by pests directly lead to food losses due to internal damage and is a main concern in phytosanitary measures for export to distant markets. A correct status of pests and diseases and methods to guarantee the absence of the pathogenic organisms (or to minimize the risk of their presence in or on the product for export) is a recurring element in export files and procedures. However, based on current crop protection schemes and (the lack of efficient) control techniques, the strict phytosanitary requirements can often only be met by including very laborious, time-consuming (and therefore expensive) controls in the procedures. To improve management of phytosanitary risks, an efficient system for the rapid and early detection of target organisms after harvest/storage is required. It has been shown that X-ray imaging could detect larvae in horticultural products to some extent. Still, limitations in both image quality and image processing techniques hamper good classification and the processing speed and practical scale-up remain a problem. In this PhD, new developments in X-ray methods (computed tomography, multi-sensor imaging, phase contrast imaging, spectral X-ray imaging) are explored together with advanced image processing approaches including novel deep learning methods. Applications in different products will be targeted.
Profile
The lab is looking for a highly motivated PhD candidate who is eager to become part of a highly visible international interdisciplinary team to perform cutting-edge research. You have a critical mind and you have good affinity with advanced image analysis and algorithm programming . You are required to have a Master of Science degree (or equivalent) in (bioscience) engineering, physics or mathematics.
Offer
The lab offers you a 4 year PhD position. The lab will support you in all aspects in order to successfully obtain a PhD degree and a proper scientific training. You will be given opportunities to participate at national and international meetings and establish your own network. You will have an advanced training in X-ray imaging and image analysis and work closely with application experts. You will have also great opportunities to gain experience in transferal skills.
Interested?

For more information please contact Dr. ir. Pieter Verboven, tel.: +32 16 32 14 53, mail: [email protected] or Prof. dr. ir. Bart Nicolai, tel.: +32 16 32 23 75, mail: [email protected].


KU Leuven seeks to foster an environment where all talents can flourish, regardless of gender, age, cultural background, nationality or impairments. If you have any questions relating to accessibility or support, please contact us at [email protected].


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