PhD Student Position in Operations Research – Joint Ghent University & KU Leuven KU Leuven in Belgium

This fully funded PhD position in Operations Research is a joint opportunity between Ghent University and KU Leuven, focusing on optimization and education research. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of Prof. Dries Goossens (Ghent University), Prof. Jeroen Belien, and Prof. Liesje De Boeck (KU Leuven), engaging in high-level research at the intersection of operations research, algorithm design, and educational innovation.

The project offers two main research tracks. The first centers on practical organization of teaching, including university course timetabling, examination scheduling, master thesis defense assignments, and student project allocations. The aim is to develop algorithms that optimize planning and assignments, with a special emphasis on fairness—balancing preferences of teachers and students. The second track investigates the teaching of operations research, specifically the impact of AI-assisted modeling exercises versus open-ended modeling on students’ modeling skills and critical thinking. The research will explore whether exposure to AI-generated solutions (such as ChatGPT) enhances students’ ability to develop models from scratch and critically assess errors in AI-generated models.

The position is flexible, allowing the PhD researcher to develop their own research ideas in consultation with supervisors. The primary goal is to publish high-quality, impactful research papers while ensuring practical relevance in teaching. The candidate may also guide Bachelor and Master students, participate in teaching activities, and supervise exams.

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, a strong mathematical background, programming skills, and a keen interest in operations research are required. Candidates must demonstrate independent research ability, teamwork skills, and excellent English communication. International mobility and enrollment in the KU Leuven PhD program (including 21 ECTS coursework) are expected.

The offer includes a full-time PhD position for up to four years, subject to yearly positive evaluation, with a competitive salary according to university scales. The position provides opportunities for personal growth, conference participation, doctoral school courses, educational initiatives, and publication. The working environment is dynamic, inclusive, and supportive, with active research groups in Ghent, Brussels, and Leuven.

Applications should be submitted via KU Leuven’s online platform, including a motivation letter, CV, and academic transcripts. For more information, contact Prof. Dries Goossens ([email protected]), Prof. Jeroen Belien ([email protected]), or Prof. Liesje De Boeck ([email protected]). KU Leuven is committed to equal opportunity and diversity, offering support for accessibility and inclusion.