Ghent University, a leading European institution with a strong commitment to research and education, is offering a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering. The position is embedded within the Fluid Mechanics team, renowned for its expertise in numerical simulation of fluid-structure interaction (FSI) and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The research focus is on developing and applying multi-fidelity aero-servo-elastic models for airborne wind energy, combining advanced techniques in fluid mechanics, structural simulation, and control systems.

The doctoral candidate will join the European Doctoral Network COMBINE, which offers a collaborative environment across 14 academic and industrial institutions. The research will address challenging FSI problems relevant to energy transition and industry, including applications such as wind energy at high altitude, tube bundle vibrations, multiphase flow-induced vibration, supersonic air jet weaving, elastohydrodynamic lubrication, and blood flow in large arteries and the heart. The candidate will spend 6 months in secondments at network partners, gaining valuable interdisciplinary and international experience.

Responsibilities include conducting academic research for a doctoral dissertation, assisting in teaching activities related to fluid mechanics and fluid machines, supporting departmental services, and participating in training activities within the COMBINE network. The position offers a contract starting as early as September 1, 2026, with an initial 12-month period extendable up to 48 months upon positive evaluation. The fellowship provides a net salary equivalent to an AAP member, determined by family status and seniority, and is tax-free. Staff benefits include extensive training opportunities, 36 days of annual leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Applicants must hold a Master of Science in Electromechanical Engineering, Computational Engineering, Wind Engineering, or a closely related field, with the degree requirement fulfilled at the start of appointment. Prior research in numerical modelling of wind is required, and experience with CFD tools (URANS, hybrid, or scale-resolving turbulence models, Chimera techniques) is preferred. Excellent teaching and communication skills are expected, and any teaching experience or participation in extra training or conferences is advantageous. Candidates must satisfy 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 before recruitment.

To apply, send your CV, diploma copy (if available), and motivation letter to [email protected] before April 30, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. For further information, contact Prof. Joris Degroote at [email protected]. Ghent University encourages applications from all backgrounds as part of its equal opportunities and diversity policy. For more details on the common job offer for all doctoral candidates, visit Euraxess.