Overview
Ghent University is one of the top 100 universities in the Dutch language area, with more than 44,000 students and 15,000 staff members.
Department of Marketing, Innovation and Organisation
Occupancy rate: 100%
Closing date: 4/5/26
Required diploma: Master’s degree (MA or MSc) in a relevant field (e.g., business engineering, industrial engineering, mathematics, engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence).
About Ghent University: Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest and most exciting employers in the region and offers excellent career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 85 departments offering research‑based study programmes across a broad range of disciplines, Ghent University is a logical choice for staff and students alike.
Responsibilities
We are hiring a full‑time PhD researcher within the CVAMO Flanders Make Lab at Ghent University. The project focuses on developing machine learning models to predict manufacturability and manufacturing effort directly from CAD geometry.
The research aims to translate geometric design information into quantitative estimates of manufacturing effort and cost. Methods include Graph Neural Networks, geometric deep learning, and multi‑view learning architectures.
Strong emphasis is placed on explainable AI to identify which geometric features drive cost increases or infeasibility, thereby providing interpretable managerial decision support.
You will contribute to teaching activities in the department (Data Mining, Machine Learning), up to a maximum of 10% of your appointment.
You may also contribute to the execution of collaborative industry projects, up to a maximum of 10% of your appointment.
You will enrol as a full‑time PhD student for four years (upon yearly positive evaluations) in the Department of Management, Innovation and Organisation (Faculty of Economics and Business Administration) under supervision of Prof. Dries Benoit. The successful completion of the project will lead to obtaining a doctoral degree (PhD).
Qualifications
You hold a Master’s degree (MA or MSc), or are about to complete one in 2026, in a relevant field (e.g., business engineering, industrial engineering, mathematics, engineering, computer science, artificial intelligence). Strong study results are an asset.
A strong interest in scientific research in machine learning and AI, preferably with background knowledge in neural networks and deep learning.
Strong analytical and programming skills.
Clear scientific and communicative skills (critical thinking, scientific writing, presentation skills).
A profound knowledge of English is required.
Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research environment.
Benefits and Offer
A full‑time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months which, after positive evaluation, will be extended to a maximum of 48 months.
Targeted starting date: September 1, 2026.
The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by Team Personnel Administration based on family status and seniority. A grant that meets the conditions and criteria of the regulations for doctoral fellowships is considered free of personal income tax. Click here for more information about our salary scales.
Opportunities for conference participation, doctoral school training, and international publication.
A stimulating research environment within CVAMO and Flanders Make, closely connected to industrial applications.
All Ghent University staff members enjoy various benefits, including training opportunities, holiday leave, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers.
How to Apply
Motivation letter
Detailed CV, including study results
Copy of your degree and transcripts
All documents should be in PDF format
Make sure the subject line of your email starts with “PHD26”
Please apply before April 5, 2026 23:59 via email to dries.benoit@ugent.be and include all required documents.
Contact: Prof. Dries Benoit (dries.benoit@ugent.be)
Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy. Everyone is encouraged to apply.
#J-18808-Ljbffr