Are you passionate about sustainable energy and electric mobility? Vrije Universiteit Brussel is offering a PhD Student Position in Brassinosteroid Transport. Join an international research team in Brussels and contribute to shaping the future of smart energy systems.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Economics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics and demonstrate a strong interest in sustainable energy systems. Candidates should have basic modelling and programming skills, preferably in Python, along with a solid mathematical background and an interest in economics. Applicants must be able to work both independently and collaboratively, be willing to attend international meetings or conferences, and meet the VUB enrolment, residence, and work permit requirements for EU or non-EU nationals.

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a leading public research university in Belgium, known for its strong commitment to freedom of inquiry, critical thinking, and social responsibility. Located in the heart of Brussels, an international and multicultural city, VUB offers a dynamic academic environment with a strong focus on innovative research and high-quality education.

Application Deadline: Applications are welcome until the position is filled.

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Belgium
• Department: Faculty of Engineering – Department of Electrical Engineering and Energy Technology
  Research Group: MOBI – Electromobility Research Centre
• Course Level: PhD (Doctoral Degree)
• Award: Government-funded PhD scholarship (monthly grant according to official doctoral scales)
• Access Mode: Online
• Number of Awards: NA
• Nationality: Open to EU and non-EU applicants
• The Award Can Be Taken In: Belgium

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All nationalities are eligible (subject to residence and permit requirements)
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in disciplines related to:

• Economics

• Engineering

• Applied Mathematics

• Energy systems and sustainability-related fields

• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Hold an academic or professional Master’s degree in Economics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics

• Demonstrate a strong interest in sustainable energy systems

• Possess basic modelling and programming skills (Python required; system dynamics modelling is a plus)

• Have a strong mathematical background and interest in economics

• Be able to work both independently and collaboratively

• Demonstrate excellent written and spoken English skills (basic Dutch is an advantage)

• Be willing to attend international meetings and conferences

• Must not have held a paid assistant mandate funded by operating resources for more than 12 months (cumulatively)

• Meet VUB enrolment, residence, and work permit requirements for (non-)EEA nationals.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online via jobs.vub.be by 15 January 2026. Applicants are required to upload:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Motivation letter

• Copy of diploma (not required for VUB alumni)

Selection Process:

1. Initial screening of application documents

2. Job interview with shortlisted candidates

Benefits

• Full-time PhD scholarship for 12 months, extendable up to 48 months based on positive evaluation

• Competitive monthly doctoral grant

• 35 days of paid leave plus holiday closures

• Teleworking options with a monthly allowance

• Free hospitalisation insurance

• Full reimbursement of public transport or cycling allowance

• Access to campus sports facilities, meals at reduced prices, and employee discounts

• Supportive, inclusive, and international research environment

• Opportunities for training, career development, and international collaboration

Apply Now