Doctoral scholarship holder thermal energy system optimization

Departement: Departement Elektromechanica
Regime Voltijds

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The Department of Electromechanical Engineering in the Faculty of Applied Engineering is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of thermal energy system optimization.

Position

You will actively work on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of thermal energy system optimization. The PhD project is part of a larger research project in collaboration with Ghent University and KU Leuven on the implementation of high-temperature heat pumps in industrial chemical batch processes. The focus of this PhD will be on the integration of the heat pump in the industrial process, taking into account the transient heating and cooling demands of different processes. A design and optimization methodology for both the integration architecture (combination of heat pump, thermal energy storage and possibly e-boilers), component sizing and control strategy will be developed.

You will draw up a research plan and corresponding research methods in consultation with your supervisor(s) and undertake the necessary administration for a smooth PhD process.

You will conduct the research efficiently and to an appropriate standard, possibly abroad, and compete for funding for general or specific costs.

You will report progress to your supervisor(s) and committees, and present your research at scientific conferences.

You will defend your thesis publicly and aim for publication in the scientific press.

You will make a supporting, scientific contribution to existing research projects or lines of research within beyond your own doctoral research.

You will compete for internal or external predoctoral funding.

In addition to project-based research, you will also be responsible for a limited range of support tasks related to teaching and/or research management within the EMIB (Energy and Materials in Infrastructure and Buildings) research group.

Profile

You hold a master degree in Electromechanical or Chemical Engineering (or similar) or you will have obtained it by the time of appointment.

You can provide evidence of excellent study results.

Experience with analysis and modelling of thermal energy systems is considered a plus.

You have a good knowledge of English, both oral and written.

Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.

Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.

You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.

You can collaborate with colleagues and work well in a team, while at the same time you can work on your own research independently.

What we offer

We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of one year. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed for another period of one year, up until a maximum of four years in total.

We offer the opportunity to take part in academic activities within the scope of your work, as well as the opportunity to further develop yourself through training and education.

The planned start date is 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible after that date.

Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.

You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.

As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.

You will do most of your work at Campus Groenenborger in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.

Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including 9 July 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments: a motivation letter and your CV.

The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.

If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to Voir email sur uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact prof. Ilya T’Jollyn at Voir email sur uantwerpen.be.

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversityand attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.