PhD Position in Operations Research for Educational Optimization and AI in Learning KU Leuven in Belgium

This fully funded PhD position in Operations Research is a joint opportunity between KU Leuven and Ghent University, located in Ghent, Brussels, and Leuven, Belgium. The research focuses on applying Operations Research (OR) to educational optimization, with two main tracks: optimization of educational scheduling (including university course timetabling, high school scheduling, exam scheduling, and master thesis defenses) and the teaching of Operations Research (studying the effects of AI-assisted versus open-ended modeling exercises on student learning, and investigating how AI-generated solutions like ChatGPT influence modeling skills, critical thinking, and error assessment).

The project is supervised by Prof. Dries Goossens (Ghent University), Prof. Jeroen Belien, and Prof. Liesje De Boeck (KU Leuven), all from faculties of Economics and Business. The position is ideal for candidates passionate about operations research, educational optimization, AI in learning, and data-driven teaching methodologies in an international academic environment.

Applicants should have or be completing a Master's degree in Engineering, Business Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science, Operations Research, Operations Management, Computer Science, AI, or a related field by 2026. Strong academic results, mathematical and programming skills, independent research ability, teamwork, and excellent English communication are required. The role includes participation in seminars, conferences, and international mobility, as well as enrollment in the KU Leuven PhD program (21 ECTS coursework) and contributions to teaching and student guidance.

The offer includes a full-time, 4-year PhD position with a competitive salary (according to university scales), contingent on yearly evaluations. The environment is supportive and constructive, with opportunities for personal growth through conference participation, doctoral schools, teaching, and publications. The application deadline is 01 March 2026. Applications should be submitted via the KU Leuven online platform, including a letter of motivation, CV, and academic transcripts. For inquiries, contact Prof. Dries Goossens, Prof. Jeroen Belien, or Prof. Liesje De Boeck by email.

Relevant academic keywords: Operations Research, Educational Optimization, AI in Education, Course Timetabling, Scheduling, Algorithm Development, Fairness in Education, Mathematical Modeling, Data Science, Critical Thinking.