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PhD position High-Performance Stainless Steel Structures

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position DurationSee Position Description
  • Position Funding Type PhD Research Funding
  • Application deadlineMarch 4, 2026
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Position Details (PhD Research Project)

The Faculty of Engineering Technology, located at Campus De Nayer (Sint-Katelijne-Waver), and the Department of Civil Engineering of the Science Engineering and Technology Group of KU Leuven, invite applications for a PhD position to strengthen the Materials & Constructions research group.

We are seeking a dynamic and motivated researcher to pursue a PhD in High-Performance Stainless Steel Structures. The position will support the activities of the Materials & Constructions research group and contribute to teaching in the Bachelor and Master of Science in Engineering Technology - Civil Engineering.

The position is based on Campus De Nayer in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium, which is one of the operational sites of the Faculty of Engineering Technology. The faculty forms a multi-campus unit follows the integration of the engineering technology educational programs of KU Leuven. The faculty has its own teaching, research and doctoral profile.

The appointee will be a member of the Department of Civil Engineering and the Faculty of Engineering Technology of KU Leuven, aligned with the assigned research and teaching responsiblities.

Project

Research:

The doctoral research focuses on the structural behaviour of novel stainless steel built-up section members and reliable design recommendations alongside practical guidelines. With the goal of advancing materialconscious and sustainable construction practices, the research aims to develop innovative built-up configurations for stainless steel members that deliver superior stability performance and enable convenient assembly, Campus De Nayer is seeking a PhD candidate capable of conducting research on high-performance stainless steel structures, including experimental characterization, numerical modeling, and development of design rules. The candidate will work under the guidance of Prof. Qiu-Yun Li, who conducts active research in Structural Engineering and Constructional Materials within the Department of Civil Engineering at KU Leuven.
The researcher is expected to:
  • conduct scientific experimental investigation using state-of-the-art structural testing facilities
  • perform finite element modelling using software ABAQUS
  • be able to work independently, accurately and methodically
  • present research results at regular internal and/or external meeting
  • write scientific papers for publication in top-tier journals and present research work at international conference(s)
  • demonstrate a solid academic background relevant to the envisaged research topic
Teaching:
The successful candidate will support teaching activities in the Bachelor and Master of Science in Engineering Technology - Civil Engineering. The appointee should also be willing to guide master theses.
Consultancy:
Depending on progress during the PhD trajectory, the candidate may also be required to support consultancy activities.

Profile

The position is open to applicants with a master's degree in Civil Engineering or related disciplines.

Qualified candidates:
  • have strong academic profile (at least distinction in the master's degree)
  • demonstrate enthusiasm for structural testing, finite element modelling, design rule development, and sustainable construction
  • have an interest in multidisciplinary research
  • possess excellent command of English, both spoken and written; knowledge of Dutch is considered an asset
  • are open-minded, collaborative, well-organized, and have good communication skills

Offer

We offer a full-time appointment for a duration of up to 4 years. You will work as a doctoral student in a stimulating and challenging environment with a high degree of flexibiliy and autonomy.

At KU Leuven, the main teaching language is Dutch, while English is widely used for research communication. The successful candidate must be willing to accept the mobility required to fulfil teaching and research responsiblities.
KU Leuven is committed to equal opportunities and values diversity within its workforce.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Qiu-Yun Li, Materials & Constructions research group, Campus De Nayer (Sint-Katelijne-Waver): [emailprotected].

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Research Areas & Fields of Study involved in the position

Position Start Date

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