Postdoctoral Fellow in Electromechanical Engineering

Ghent University

Department: TW08 – Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering
Occupancy Rate: 100%
Vacancy Type: Research Staff
Application Deadline: 30 September 2026, 23:59
Location: Electrical Energy Laboratory, Tech Lane Ghent Science Park, Zwijnaarde, Belgium

About Ghent University

Ghent University is a top 100 university worldwide and one of the major universities in Belgium, with more than 44,000 students and 15,000 staff members. The Energy & Systems Laboratory (EnSy) is participating in a regional research project, Stratus, with a duration of 4 years.

Your Tasks

The Stratus project investigates how drone motors can be designed and manufactured without critical materials, while maintaining high performance in power density and efficiency.

• Critical materials include rare-earth magnets and copper; aluminum will be used as a substitute for copper windings.
• Alternative solutions, including electrically excited systems (with or without ferrite materials), will be explored.
• Ensuring manufacturability for mass production is a core focus from the early design stages.

As a PhD student, you will:

• Develop multiphysics models (electromagnetic and thermal) of electric motors.
• Assess and ensure manufacturability of all motor components.
• Construct prototype motors and conduct extensive testing.
• Collaborate with industrial partners on design, manufacturing, and drone application aspects.

What We Are Looking For

• Master of Science in Engineering, preferably in electromechanical or electrical engineering.
• Motivated, creative, and passionate about academic research.
• Affinity for both experimental research and simulation software.
• Strong technical knowledge and hands-on experience in electric machines; knowledge of power electronics and control is a plus.
• Good communication skills in English.
• Interest in challenging, multidisciplinary, international scientific research.

What We Can Offer

• Full-time doctoral fellowship for an initial 12 months, extendable to a maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation.
• Fellowship amount: 100% of the net salary of an AAP member (dependent on family status and seniority), tax-free if conditions of doctoral fellowship regulations are met.
• Benefits for Ghent University staff: training and education opportunities, 36 days of annual leave plus fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance, ecocheques, and more.
• Work in a stimulating environment at the Electrical Energy Laboratory, Tech Lane Ghent Science Park, Zwijnaarde.

Interested?

Applications should be sent by email to:

• Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be
• Peter.Sergeant@UGent.be

Required documents: cover letter and CV.

Reference letters are not required at application stage.

Suitable candidates will be invited for an interview and may be given a small assignment.

Flexible starting date, preferably as soon as possible.

For more information about the PhD topic, contact: Hendrik.Vansompel@UGent.be