Future engineering design paradigms: balancing product performance, value, cost, comfort and sustainability in mechanical product development
KU Leuven Mechanical Systems Dynamics (LMSD) and the Research Center for Operations Management are seeking a full‐time PhD researcher for a project on developing Future engineering design paradigms.
Project
This PhD project is part of the 'PACCAR Chair: Future Engineering Design' bringing together expertise from the fields of mechanical engineering, economics and materials science to find the complex balance between performance, cost, comfort and sustainability in mechanical product development.
A central aspect of this research will be the investigation and development of innovative mechanical design paradigms made possible by the integration of complete lifecycle data for mechanical components and systems. By factoring in information on design, production, operation and maintenance, the project aims to move beyond the conventional 'build to last' design philosophy. Instead, it will explore strategies where components are designed to perform reliably until the next scheduled maintenance, potentially enabling significant material savings or production cost reduction without compromising operational reliability.
The research will be jointly supervised by members of the Faculties of Engineering Science, Engineering Technology and the Faculty of Economics and Business. For this, the researcher will be embedded in both engineering and economics research teams. The researcher is expected to divide his time equally between both teams.
The PhD will be supervised by the PACCAR Chair promoter and co‐promoters, with the final supervising committee established in alignment with the candidate's personnel background and interests.
Profile
Master's degree in engineering or business engineering with above‐average performance. No doctoral degree at the time of recruitment.
Proficient in written and spoken English.
Profound interest or experience through courses or prior professional activities in either mechanical design and analysis or business model innovations in the manufacturing industry.
Multidisciplinary mindset, enjoying exploring innovative ideas beyond traditional boundaries of core engineering and economic disciplines.
Structured and scientifically sound research skills, with ability to read and interpret technical papers and to implement and improve methodologies.
Ability to develop monthly plans for 1–3 months of research, work independently towards goals, and report deviations in a timely manner.
Regular reporting (weekly to monthly) of results with well‐founded interpretation and refinement of work based on supervisor feedback.
Team player, eager to share results and inspire peers.
During the PhD, aim to advance involvement in the project and represent the research group at meetings and conferences, disseminating work internationally.
Offer
Competitive remuneration package with high quality of life and excellent health care system in Belgium.
Opportunity to pursue a PhD at KU Leuven in Mechanical Engineering or Economics and Business, typically a four‐year trajectory.
Ample opportunities to develop in a scientific and/or an industrial direction. Further doctoral training is provided within the KU Leuven Arenberg Doctoral School.
How to apply
Full CV – mandatory
Motivation letter – mandatory
Full list of credits and grades of both BSc and MSc degrees (transcribed to English if possible) – mandatory (or partial list if not finished)
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, ...) – if availableTwo reference letters – if available
An English version of MSc or PhD thesis, or of a recent publication or assignment – if available
The application deadline is 28 February 2026 via the online application tool.
Please contact Dr. Claus Claeys (claus.claeys@kuleuven.be) by e‐mail and mention "PhD Future Engineering Design" in the subject line.
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