Exciting Doctoral Scholarship Opportunity in Product Development at the University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is offering a fantastic opportunity for aspiring researchers with its Doctoral Scholarship Holder position focused on Product Development. This position is designed for individuals interested in advancing sustainable design practices and is perfect for those passionate about circular economy strategies.

Position Overview

The University of Antwerp, known for its dynamic and innovative academic environment, is seeking a full-time doctoral candidate to prepare and defend a PhD thesis in Circular Product Design (CPD). The focus will be on improving the repairability and upgradability of smart electronic products through modular design.

Key Responsibilities

As a doctoral scholarship holder, you will:

• Conduct research on Design for Repairability and Upgradability via Modularity (DRUM method).
• Create a comprehensive product data plan using computational design tools.
• Conduct case studies to validate the methods developed.
• Publish scientific articles related to your research.
• Participate in limited teaching and research support tasks for the Department of Product Development.

Ideal Candidate Profile

To be eligible for this exciting opportunity, candidates should:

• Hold a Master’s degree in industrial sciences, product development, or a related field (or expect to obtain it by start date).
• Demonstrate excellent academic results and strong research capabilities.
• Exhibit teaching competencies aligned with the University’s educational vision.
• Show a commitment to quality, integrity, creativity, and collaboration.
• Knowledge of Dutch is a plus, as the research involves stakeholder interactions with Flemish companies.

What the University Offers

The University of Antwerp provides a supportive environment for its researchers, including:

• A doctoral scholarship for two years, with the potential for renewal.
• A planned start date of January 1, 2025.
• A monthly scholarship amount based on established rates for doctoral candidates.
• Additional benefits such as eco-cheques, an internet allowance, and commuting allowances.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply until November 4, 2024. To apply, visit the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform and ensure you include:

• A motivation letter.
• An academic CV.
• A portfolio of relevant work.

The selection committee will review applications shortly after the deadline, and successful candidates will be notified of the next steps in the selection process.

Why Choose the University of Antwerp?

The University of Antwerp is not only one of the largest and most international employers in the region, but it also emphasizes sustainability and inclusivity in its work culture. The university has received the HR Excellence in Research Award from the European Commission, reflecting its commitment to fostering a supportive research environment.