Ghent University and KU Leuven are jointly offering a fully funded PhD position in Operations Research, focusing on optimization in education and AI-assisted learning. The successful candidate will explore topics such as AI-generated modeling exercises and algorithm development for educational scheduling.
To be eligible for this PhD position, applicants must hold (or be in the final year of) a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as business engineering, industrial engineering, mathematics, computer science, or related disciplines. Candidates should have a strong academic record preferably with distinction and demonstrate a keen interest in scientific research and optimization. Essential skills include programming, critical thinking, and effective communication in English.
- Award
- Application Process
- Clarity of Information
Established in 1425, KU Leuven is a leading research university in Leuven, Belgium. Renowned for its academic excellence, it offers diverse programs in humanities, sciences, engineering, and medicine. With over 60,000 students, including many international students, KU Leuven fosters a global, innovative learning environment. Its problem-based learning and cutting-edge research attract top talent, consistently ranking it among the world’s best universities.
Application Deadline: May 04, 2025
Brief Description
- University or Organization: Ghent University and KU Leuven (joint degree)
- Department: Department of Business Informatics and Operations Management, Ghent University
- Operations Management Research Group, KU Leuven (Brussels campus)
- Course Level: PhD
- Award: Full-time PhD position (up to 4 years), with salary according to official university scales
- Access Mode: Online application
- Number of Awards: 1
- Nationality: Domestic and international
- The award can be taken in: Belgium (Ghent, Brussels, Leuven)
- Eligibility
- Eligible Countries: All nationalities
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in any subject relevant to:
- Operations Research
- Business Administration
- Industrial Engineering
- Mathematics
- Engineering Sciences
- Computer Science
- Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must:
- Hold or be in the final year of a Master’s degree (MA or MSc) in a relevant field (e.g., business engineering, mathematics, industrial engineering, etc.).
- Have good academic results, preferably with a distinction.
- Demonstrate a strong interest in scientific research and optimization.
- Possess strong programming, analytical, and communication skills.
- Be fluent in English; knowledge of Dutch is a plus but not required.
- Be a responsible and ethical individual with the ability to work independently and in a team.
- Show motivation to contribute to research on educational applications of AI and optimization problems (e.g., scheduling and timetabling).
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit their application no later than May 04, 2025 via the KU Leuven online application tool.
For more information, contact:
- Prof. Dr. Jeroen Belien ([email protected])
- Prof. Dr. Liesje De Boeck ([email protected])
- Prof. Dr. Dries Goossens ([email protected])
Benefits
- A fully-funded PhD position for up to four years (based on annual evaluations)
- Competitive salary according to university standards
- A dynamic, supportive research environment across three cities: Ghent, Brussels, and Leuven
- Opportunities to attend conferences, publish in international journals, and follow doctoral school training
- Networking possibilities within academic and educational sectors
- Contribution to meaningful research with real-life impact on education and operations.
