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PhD position: EEG-based auditory brain-computer interfaces

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position Funding Type Research Assistantship (RA)
  • Application deadlineSeptember 29, 2025
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Position Details (PhD Research Project)

The work will be performed within the research division STADIUS at the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) at KU Leuven, Europe’s most innovative university (Reuters). STADIUS’ major research objective is to contribute to the development of improved digital (control and signal processing) systems that incorporate advanced mathematical modeling techniques as a crucial new ingredient.
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Project

This job opening covers a PhD position (4 years) at the STADIUS group of the Dept. of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) of KU Leuven (Belgium) in the frame of a project on ‘natural’ auditory brain-computer interfaces (BCI) for tracking of auditory attention via electroencephalography (EEG). The goal is to design accurate and calibration-free BCI algorithms for decoding auditory attention to natural speech, with applications in hearing aids and hearing devices.

Profile

  • You have a master’s degree in engineering with a background in any of the following domains: electrical or mathematical engineering, biomedical engineering, computer science, information technology, artificial intelligence, signal processing (or a similar degree with an equivalent academic level). 
  • You have a solid mathematically-oriented background
  • You have a genuine interest in signal processing and/or machine learning methodology and algorithms
  • You obtained good grades in courses related to the topics relevant to this PhD position
  • You are able to do independent research (demonstrated by, e.g., excellent grades on a MSc thesis, etc.)
  • You have a critical mindset
  • You have an excellent proficiency in the English language (both speaking and writing)
Additional research/educational experience in any of the following topics is a plus:
  • Component analysis theory and application (PCA, ICA, CCA, …)
  • Multi-channel and adaptive signal processing
  • Linear Algebra (Eigenvalue decomposition, SVD, …)
  • Machine learning for signal processing

Offer

  • A funded PhD scholarship
  • An exciting interdisciplinary research environment
  • A KU Leuven affiliation, Europe’s most innovative university (Reuters)
  • The possibility to take part in international conferences and collaborations
  • A competitive salary
Location: STADIUS, Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT), KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium

STADIUS Website
BIOMED Website

Interested?

Interested applicants should submit:
– a curriculum vitae
– a concise motivation letter (see below)
– a transcript of followed courses + grades
– the names and contact information of 2 references
Motivation letters are free format, but should include 2 required paragraphs:
1) Reason(s) why I am interested in this particular position: [write reasons here]
2) Facts or examples that demonstrate that I satisfy the listed requirements: [write reasons here]
**Important note** Early applications are encouraged and will be considered as soon as they are received. The position can be closed earlier than the deadline in case a suitable candidate has been found.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Alexander Bertrand, mail: [email protected] or Dr. Simon Geirnaert, mail: [email protected].

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

Artificial Intelligence Biomedical Engineering Computational Sciences Electrical Engineering Machine Learning Signal processing

Position Start Date

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