Postdoctoral Fellow in Electromechanical Engineering

Ghent University

Department: TW08 – Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering
Regime: Full-time (100%)
Location: Ghent University, Belgium
Start Date: 1 March 2026 (earliest)
Application Deadline: 15 February 2026 (23:59 CET)

About Ghent University

Ghent University is a leading European research university employing over 15,000 staff. It provides cutting-edge research, education, and technical services across 11 faculties and 85+ departments. Ghent University is known for fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and innovative research solutions.

Project Overview

The PhD position is framed within the Model-based Efficiency and Lifetime Optimization of Drivetrains project. The project aims to improve sustainability and reliability of drivetrain systems by combining advanced simulation techniques with data-driven models.

The research involves close collaboration with experimental facilities and simulation/condition-monitoring experts to:

• Develop high-fidelity dynamic multi-body simulation (MBS) models with elastic bodies and elasto-hydrodynamic (EHD) couplings.
• Account for wear- and fatigue-induced degradation in machine elements.
• Create machine-learning-based surrogate models for rapid predictions of efficiency and lifetime.
• Validate models using experimental data from drivetrain test benches equipped with load, temperature, vibration, and acoustic sensors.
• Integrate models into a Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) framework to ensure scalability and reusability.

The work combines simulation, machine learning, and experimental validation in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct doctoral research on advanced drivetrain simulation and modeling.
• Develop MBS/EHD models and ML-based surrogate models.
• Validate models against experimental data from test benches.
• Collaborate with experimental teams and contribute to a multidisciplinary research network.
• Disseminate results through academic publications and presentations.

Candidate Profile

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Computational Mechanics, or related fields.
• Strong interest in machine design, computational modeling, tribology, and machine learning.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Fluent in English; proficiency in Dutch is an asset.
• Motivation to conduct research in an international environment and engage with experimental teams.
• Affinity for simulation tools, data-driven methods, and advanced modeling.

What We Offer

• Full-time doctoral fellowship, initially 12 months, extendable to up to 48 months after positive evaluation.
• Fellowship amount: 100% of net salary for an AAP member (family status considered).
• Training and education opportunities through Ghent University Doctoral Schools.
• Benefits: 36 days of annual leave, bicycle allowance, eco vouchers, and access to various staff benefits.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment.

How to Apply

Send a single PDF including:

• CV with references and publications
• Copy of your Master’s diploma (if available)
• Motivation letter

To: Prof. Florian König – florian.konig@ugent.be

Late applications will not be accepted.

For questions about the position, contact Prof. Florian König.

Diversity & Inclusion

Ghent University promotes equal opportunities and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.