Ghent University invites applications for a full-time doctoral fellow position in the Fluid Mechanics team of the Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering, within the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture. The university is renowned for its research-driven study programmes and offers a vibrant academic environment with over 85 departments and 11 faculties.

This PhD position is part of the European Doctoral Network COMBINE, which offers 17 doctoral positions across 14 European institutions. The successful candidate will focus on the simulation of flow-induced vibration with contact in tube bundles, developing and applying advanced techniques for fluid-structure interaction (FSI) with contact. The research will involve numerical simulation, coupling computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to structural solvers and controllers, and developing quasi-Newton coupling algorithms for partitioned FSI simulation. Applications span wind energy, tube bundle vibrations, multiphase flow, air jet weaving, elastohydrodynamic lubrication, and blood flow in large arteries and the heart.

The doctoral fellow will participate in academic research, assist in teaching activities related to fluid mechanics and fluid machines, and contribute to internal and external departmental services. Training activities within the COMBINE network and secondments at academic and industrial partners (totaling 6 months) are integral to the position.

Eligibility requires a Master of Science in Electromechanical Engineering, Computational Engineering, or a similar field, with prior research experience in numerical modelling of (multiphase) flow. Experience with CFD tools, URANS turbulence models, and Chimera techniques is preferred. Excellent teaching and communication skills are expected, and teaching experience or participation in extra training and conferences is recommended. Applicants must comply with the EU Mobility Rule, meaning they must not have resided or carried out their main activity in Belgium for more than 12 months in the 3 years prior to recruitment.

The fellowship is offered for an initial 12 months, extendable up to 48 months after positive evaluation. The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member, determined by family status and seniority, and is tax-free. Ghent University staff enjoy benefits including training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

To apply, send your CV, diploma copy (if available), and motivation letter to [email protected] by April 30, 2026. For more information, contact Prof. Joris Degroote at [email protected]. Applications via Academic Positions are also accepted. Ghent University encourages applications from all backgrounds as part of its equal opportunities and diversity policy.