PhD Student - Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering

Last application date Sep 20, 2024 00:00

Department TW08 - Department of Electromechanical, Systems and Metal Engineering

Contract Limited duration

Degree You hold a Master’s degree in electromechanics, mechanical engineering, construction or a related field.

Occupancy rate 100%

Vacancy type Research staff

Job description

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, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.

We are seeking a dedicated and qualified enthusiast to undertake research on sustainable wear-resistant eco-polymers, with a focus on finding green alternatives to PTFE (PFAS).

The investigation will focus on potential substitutional materials to PTFE and PTFE-containing polymer sliding machine elements and tribotechnical components. This research aims to investigate the abrasive wear behavior, including wear micro-mechanisms, surface and micro-geometry changes along with other tribological properties such as friction in contact. Additionally, the study will explore wear particle generation and embedding characteristics. The research will be conducted under various pressure-velocity conditions, providing a basis for comparison. The goal is to offer comprehensive insights for effective polymer sliding element and tribotechnical component selection, as well as engineering design.

This position offers the opportunity to delve into polymer tribology and contribute to the advancement of environmentally conscious materials science. As part of our research team, you will have the opportunity to develop specialized skills in tribology and gain valuable experience in interdisciplinary research methodologies. You will meet and interact with several (international) companies working in this future-oriented domain.

At least 90% of your assignment will be spent on academic research in preparation of a doctoral dissertation.
You will contribute to publications, presentations and other dissemination and communication material; and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to discuss material selection, the research results and implement future solutions.

While the work may be challenging, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in sustainable engineering practices.

Job profile

For this PhD position, the following qualifications are relevant:

• You hold a Master’s degree in electromechanics, mechanical engineering, construction or a related field.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to work independently and at the same time function effectively in a team.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Affinity with sustainable materials is a plus.
• Willingness to travel if necessary.

We offer you:

• We offer a full-time position as a doctoral fellow, consisting of an initial period of 12 months, which - after a positive evaluation, will be extended to a total maximum of 48 months.
• Your contract will start on 1 October 2024 at the earliest.
• The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances. The individual fellowship amount is determined by the Department of Personnel and Organization 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
• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits (in Dutch).
• A challenging and dynamic working environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development and the possibility of obtaining a doctoral degree.
• Competitive salary and benefits package specific to Ghent University.
• A close-knit team of talented professionals.
• The opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects that have a positive impact on the future of green sustainable materials.

How to apply

Send your CV, copy of your diploma (if already in your possession) and a motivation letter to georgette.dhondt@ugent.be.
We do not accept late applications.

For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Patrick De Baets (Patrick.Debaets@UGent.be, +32(0)9/331 04 94).