VUB PhD Scholarship

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) invites applications for a PhD Scholarship in Autonomous Mobility and AI, based at the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus. VUB is renowned for its commitment to freedom, equality, and solidarity, fostering a diverse and innovative academic environment. As a member of the EUTOPIA alliance, VUB is at the forefront of pioneering research and education in Europe.

This position is offered by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Solvay Business School, Department of Business Technology and Operations, within the Data Analytics Lab. The research theme centers on the intersection of automated mobility and artificial intelligence, with a focus on advancing generative AI for safer and more adaptive autonomous systems. Example topics include improving perception, decision-making, and system validation for autonomous vehicles and mobility solutions. The doctoral theme and research tasks will be further developed in consultation with the supervisor, Evy Rombaut, and potentially co-supervisors.

In addition to research, the PhD student will participate in departmental teaching and guidance of exercise sessions in subjects such as Mathematics for Business Economics, Statistics for Business Economics, Decision Analytics, and Operations Research. The role also involves contributing to the daily functioning of the department.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree in Business Economics, Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. Excellent proficiency in both Dutch and English is required, along with enthusiasm for teaching, motivation for research, and strong programming skills. Candidates must not have worked as an assistant paid from operating resources for more than 12 months. Non-EEA nationals must meet VUB permit and residence requirements.

The scholarship is full-time for 12 months, extendable up to 48 months based on positive evaluation. The grant is linked to government scales, and the position includes a range of benefits: telework allowance, cost-free hospitalisation insurance, full reimbursement of public transport commute, affordable campus meals, sports facilities, nursery discounts, and extensive leave arrangements. The effective result of the scholarship is subject to enrolment as a doctoral student at VUB.

To apply, submit your CV, motivation letter, and diploma (not required for VUB alumni) via the VUB jobs portal by 31 May 2026. The selection process includes an initial review of application files followed by a job interview. For questions about the position, contact Evy Rombaut at [email protected]. For more information about VUB and its campuses, visit jobs.vub.be. Learn more about the EUTOPIA alliance at eutopia-university.eu.

This opportunity offers a dynamic and supportive environment for doctoral research in cutting-edge fields, with strong institutional backing and a vibrant academic community in Brussels.