5 PhD Vacancies in Mechanics of Materials (Composite Structures, Hydrogen Tanks, Snap Fit Joints) Ghent University in Belgium

[Fully funded for 4 years; net salary from 2600 EUR/month (after taxes and social security costs); minimum 60,000 EUR/year, maximum 80,000 EUR/year; very low tuition fee (once-only 1100 EUR at start of PhD).]

The Mechanics of Materials and Structures research group (UGent-MMS) at Ghent University is offering five fully funded PhD positions in the field of mechanics of materials. These vacancies are part of innovative research projects focusing on composite hydrogen tanks, mine counter-measure drones, and snap fit joints in constructions. Each position is supported by leading companies and research institutes, ensuring a strong collaborative environment between academia and industry.

Vacancy 1: Design, Manufacturing, and Testing of Composite Propellers for Underwater Drone Applications. This project is part of a European consortium developing next-generation propellers for underwater drones used in mine counter-measure and surveillance tasks. The research involves design and finite element simulation of propeller geometries, optimization of material choices and manufacturing processes, and mechanical characterization. The PhD researcher will interact with European defense companies and research partners, including the Royal Military Academy in Belgium.

Vacancy 2: Experimental Testing of Composites for Hydrogen Tanks. Belgium is a leader in hydrogen technologies, and this project focuses on the experimental characterization of composites for pressurized hydrogen storage tanks. Tasks include measurement of physical and mechanical properties, instrumentation and data acquisition, and assessment of structural health monitoring solutions. The research is conducted in close collaboration with automotive industry partners.

Vacancy 3: Numerical Simulation of Composite Hydrogen Tanks. This position centers on finite element modeling and design of pressurized composite tanks under various operational conditions, such as pressurization, depletion, and thermomechanical loads. The PhD researcher will work closely with industrial partners and a team of doctoral and postdoctoral colleagues.

Vacancy 4: Finite Element Simulation of Snap Fit Joints. Snap fit joints are widely used in construction, automotive, and medical devices. This project, funded by Flanders Make and supported by ten companies, focuses on advanced finite element analysis techniques for the engagement and long-term performance of complex snap fit joints. The research includes investigating solver strategies and developing computational techniques for automated optimization.

Vacancy 5: Experimental Characterization of Snap Fit Joints. This project involves developing experimental techniques for characterizing the engagement and long-term performance of snap fit joints. Instrumentation methods such as Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and high-speed imaging will be used, with tests extending from quasi-static to long-term creep loading and temperature influences.

All positions are fully funded for four years, with a net salary starting from 2600 EUR/month (after taxes and social security costs), and a very low tuition fee (once-only 1100 EUR at the start of the PhD). The funding ranges from a minimum of 60,000 EUR/year to a maximum of 80,000 EUR/year. The research group offers a dynamic and collaborative environment, working with industry leaders and academic partners such as KULeuven and Flanders Make.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a Master's degree in a relevant field (mechanical engineering, materials science, or related). A strong interest in experimental and/or computational mechanics of composite materials is required. Candidates should be enthusiastic about collaborative research and willing to travel for experimental campaigns. No specific language test requirements or GPA are mentioned.

Application Process: Interested candidates should send their application and CV directly to Dr Wim Van Paepegem via email. More information about the positions and the research group can be found on the group’s website. The application deadline is 31 October 2026.

For further details, visit: PhD job vacancies at UGent-MMS and UGent-MMS research group.