Dirk Cambier

Ghent University is seeking two highly motivated PhD candidates for a full-time doctoral fellowship focused on the comfort of advanced protective clothing, with research at the intersection of textile engineering, industrial design, and movement sciences. The position is embedded within two international projects funded by the European Defence Agency, aiming to improve the balance between ergonomic and thermo physiological comfort and protection (impact and camouflage) in protective clothing for first responders and military personnel. The research involves developing subjective and objective methods to quantify comfort, modelling and simulating design effects, and validating findings through prototyping. Multi-scale modelling will address the mechanics of multilayer fibre-based structures and the transfer of heat and moisture, with a strong emphasis on ergonomics in posture and movement. The successful candidates will work closely together and collaborate with three Ghent University centers: the Center for Textile Science and Engineering (CTSE), movement and rehabilitation sciences, and imec-mict-UGent. The position offers opportunities to participate in international meetings and conferences, and to contribute to a highly relevant field at the interface of smart textiles, physical effort monitoring, and human factors. The ultimate goal is the successful completion and defense of a doctoral thesis at Ghent University. Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field, strong multidisciplinary research interest, and excellent English communication skills. The fellowship provides a competitive salary, is tax-free, and includes extensive staff benefits. The contract starts as early as January 1, 2025, with an initial 12-month period extendable up to 48 months upon positive evaluation. Applications must be submitted by November 30, 2025. For further information, contact the listed professors.