PhD Student Position in Data-driven Operations Research – KU Leuven KU Leuven in Belgium

This fully funded PhD position at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity to conduct research in Operations Research, focusing on data-driven methods for the Inventory Routing Problem with Pickups and Deliveries (IRP-PD) under demand and supply uncertainty. The project is supervised by Prof. Jeroen Belien (Operations Management research group, Faculty of Economics and Business, campus Brussels) and Prof. Tias Guns (Declarative Languages and Artificial Intelligence, Faculty of Engineering Science, campus Arenberg). The research aims to develop efficient data-driven approaches that integrate machine learning techniques and real-time sensor data to optimize inventory and routing decisions, minimize costs, and ensure high service levels in logistics operations.

The IRP-PD involves the joint optimization of inventory and routing decisions across multiple locations and time periods, with the added complexity of uncertain demand and supply. The project will leverage historical data and auxiliary information within a Predict-then-Optimize (PtO) framework, using machine learning to improve demand and supply predictions for subsequent optimization. Additionally, the strategic use of real-time sensor inputs from selected nodes will be explored to enhance dynamic routing and inventory decisions. The goal is to provide novel solution methods for managing uncertainty and improving decision quality in logistics and supply chain management.

The successful candidate will join a dynamic and internationally recognized research environment in Brussels and Leuven, actively participating in seminars, conferences, and collaborative research activities. While the primary focus is research, the candidate may also guide Bachelor and Master students, participate in teaching, and supervise exams. The position is for a maximum of four years, contingent on successful yearly evaluations, and offers a competitive salary according to official university scales (salary scale 43). Numerous opportunities for personal growth are available, including conference participation, doctoral schools, educational initiatives, and publication opportunities.

Applicants should have recently completed or be about to complete a master's degree in Engineering, Business Engineering, Mathematics, Data Science, Operations Research, Operations Management, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a similar field. Excellent academic results (honors level or higher), a strong mathematically oriented background, advanced programming skills, and a keen interest in operations research are required. Candidates must demonstrate independent research ability (e.g., through an excellent MSc thesis), teamwork skills, and excellent command of spoken and written English. Willingness to participate in seminars and conferences, international mobility, and enrollment in the PhD program (including 21 ECTS of coursework) are expected. Teaching and exam supervision duties are also part of the role.

KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity and equal opportunity. Applications should be submitted via KU Leuven’s online platform, including a letter of motivation, CV, and university diploma copies and transcripts. For further information, contact Prof. Jeroen Belien or Prof. Tias Guns by email. The application deadline is March 1, 2026.