IT / Software positions in Belgium

A research software engineer (RSE) develops software for research purposes — building tools, pipelines, simulations and platforms that enable scientific work. RSE is increasingly recognised as a career path distinct from both academia and industry software engineering, with dedicated positions at universities and research centres.

Academic IT/software positions typically pay less than equivalent industry roles, but they offer advantages: interesting problems, flexible hours, job security (many are permanent), conference travel, and the ability to publish. In Switzerland and Germany, the gap is narrower than in other countries.

FWO (Fonds Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek) funds research in Flanders (Dutch-speaking Belgium), while F.R.S.-FNRS (Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique) funds research in Wallonia and Brussels (French-speaking Belgium). Both fund PhD and postdoc fellowships, project grants and research infrastructure.

Belgium offers a strong research environment with competitive salaries (postdocs earn €2,800–3,500/month net), central location in Europe, and world-class institutions like KU Leuven and UCLouvain. The bilingual system means opportunities exist in both Dutch- and French-speaking communities.