Let’s shape the future - University of Antwerp
The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20 000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6 000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape.
The Department of Electronics and Information and Communication Technology in the Faculty of Applied Engineering is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of Electronics-ICT: Artificial Intelligence.
Position
- You will actively work on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of Electronics-ICT: Artificial Intelligence. This PhD project focuses on the development of intelligent control algorithms for inland waterway vessels, using machine learning, with the aim of controlling the vessel in an optimal and efficient manner. In this context, control is formulated as a trade-off between different objectives, such as minimising energy consumption, ensuring smooth vessel operation (without abrupt manoeuvres), complying with regulations, and reaching the destination on time. In addition, the optimal use of hybrid propulsion systems (such as engines and batteries) and other energy consumers on board, such as cargo climate control and hotel loads, is taken into account. The system learns from data and adapts to changing conditions, enabling it to make balanced and sustainable decisions in real time.
- You will publish scientific articles, related to the research project.
- 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 Department of Electronics and Information and Communication Technology.
Profile
- You hold a master degree in Electronics-ICT, Computer Science, or a related engineering discipline, or you will have obtained it by the time of appointment.
- You can provide evidence of excellent study results.
- 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.
What we offer
- We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of two years. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed once for an additional two-year period.
- The planned start date is as soon as possible.
- 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 (Groenenborgerlaan 171, BE-2020 Antwerpen) 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 19 August 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
- your academic CV
- a one-page (A4) document, describing how you would approach the project.
- 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 e-mail to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Peter Hellinckx ([email protected]).
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 diversity and 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.
