PhD candidate in Mechanics of Materials and Constructions Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is advertising a full-time PhD candidate position in Mechanics of Materials and Constructions within the Faculty of Engineering, Department Meccanica van materialen en constructies (MeMC), in Brussels, Belgium. The successful candidate will join the Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures (M²S) research group, working on research themes that include advanced characterisation and monitoring of materials and structures, mechanics-driven design and optimisation of high-performance and sustainable materials and structures, and adaptive and multifunctional material systems.

This position is designed as a doctoral scholarship and is clearly oriented toward completing a PhD within a four-year period. The work will be developed together with the supervisors and aligned to the candidate’s strengths and research interests, while remaining close to the research activities of M²S. The appointee is expected to present findings at international conferences, build an international research network, and publish in leading academic journals.

Alongside research, the role includes a limited teaching and support component. Tasks may involve coordinating and supervising exercise sessions, laboratory sessions, and project-based learning activities in MeMC courses. Some of these teaching activities are in Dutch and others in English. The PhD candidate may also contribute to outreach and promotional activities such as VUB Information Days and SID-IN events, and assist with departmental service through councils or committees.

The position is based at the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene). The department values collaboration, knowledge sharing, and a supportive onboarding environment, and seeks someone who is open-minded, communicative, and able to work both independently and in a team.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a Master’s degree in Engineering Sciences (Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or Electromechanical Engineering, or an equivalent qualification). Fluency in English is required, while Dutch is considered an asset. The call is aimed at early-career researchers with limited paid scientific research experience who are willing to apply for external fellowships such as FWO or similar funding schemes. Applicants must also satisfy the university’s permit and residence requirements.

Funding: the university offers a full-time PhD scholarship for 12 months, renewable up to a maximum of 48 months subject to positive evaluation of the PhD activities. The grant is linked to one of the government scales, and the scholarship becomes effective upon enrolment as a doctorate student.

Application deadline: 7 September 2026 at 23:59 (Europe/Brussels). Apply through the VUB jobs portal and submit the requested documents: CV, motivation letter with a link to a self-introduction video, and diploma where applicable.

Contact: questions about the job content can be directed to Prof. Lincy Pyl at [email protected].