PhD Position in Machine Learning and Process Optimization for Sustainable Water KU Leuven in Belgium

This fully funded PhD position at KU Leuven is part of the AQUAEra project, a transnational EU-funded initiative under the Water4All Partnership. The project aims to revolutionize urban wastewater treatment by integrating advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), photocatalysis, and renewable energy generation. KU Leuven leads the Modelling and Optimization work package, focusing on developing hybrid models that combine first-principle and machine learning approaches, creating predictive frameworks for photocatalytic degradation and hydrogen production, and designing multi-objective optimization algorithms to maximize both environmental and economic performance. As a PhD researcher, you will build and validate hybrid models for photocatalytic processes, apply machine learning to experimental datasets from international consortium partners, and develop and implement multi-objective optimization algorithms such as NSGA-II and MOPSO.

You will collaborate closely with teams from FEUP, NTNU, CSIC, and NRC, contributing to publications, conferences, and the development of scalable solutions for sustainable water-energy systems. The Leblebici Team at KU Leuven is known for its interdisciplinary and collaborative approach, specializing in advanced modelling, simulation, and optimization techniques for chemical and environmental processes. Alumni have gone on to prestigious postdoctoral fellowships and elite positions in government, academia, and industry.

The position offers access to state-of-the-art facilities, international collaboration, mobility opportunities, training, and participation in European workshops and schools, all within a dynamic and supportive research environment. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Computer Science, or related fields, with a strong background in modelling, simulation, and/or machine learning.

Experience with data preprocessing, algorithm development, and optimization techniques is required, as are excellent communication skills in English. Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or similar tools is expected, and prior experience with environmental or photocatalytic systems is a plus. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a respectful and socially safe environment for all researchers. The application deadline is January 15, 2026.

For more information, contact Prof. dr. Mumin Enis Leblebici at [email protected].