Development of novel methods for shock testing of space hardware (ref. BAP-2025-729)

The KU Leuven Mecha(tro)nic System Dynamics division (LMSD) is searching for a research engineer to join its team to work in the field of development and analysis of shock testing for space equipment.This Ph.D. is part of a research project aiming to develop advanced methods for shock testing to optimize and de-risk the mechanical qualification of space hardware. The final goal is to increase the accuracy of the shock test performed in the laboratory at equipment level while reducing the total time of the shock test campaign.In this research track you will increase the accuracy and the degree of realism of the shock test through the use of multi-axis testing platforms driven by advanced Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) controllers. A comprehensive virtual shaker testing process will be developed that accounts for a proper model of the electrodynamic coupled system. Finally, this will be integrated with a data-driven methodology to characterize and synthesize shock tests leveraging AI algorithms.This will ultimately lead to more accurate shock tests which can be performed in a shorter time-frame., * Based on interactions and discussions with my supervisors and the colleagues in my team, I set up and update a plan of approach for the upcoming 1 to 3 months to work towards my research goals. I work with a sufficient degree of independence to follow my plan and achieve the goals. I indicate timely when deviations of the plan are required, if goals cannot be met or if I want to discuss intermediate results or issues.

• In frequent reporting I show the results that I have obtained and I give a well-founded interpretation of those results. I iterate on my work and my approach based on the feedback of my supervisors which steer the direction of my research.
• I feel comfortable to work as a team member and I am eager to share my results to inspire and being inspired by my colleagues.
• I value being part of a large research group which is well connected to the machine and transportation industry and I am eager to learn how academic research can be linked to industrial innovation roadmaps.
• During my PhD I want to grow towards following up the project that I am involved in and representing the research group on project meetings or conferences. I see these events as an occasion to disseminate my work to an audience of international experts and research colleagues, and to learn about the larger context of my research and the research project.

• I have a master degree in engineering, physics or mathematics and performed above average in comparison to my peers.
• I am proficient in written and spoken English.
• During my courses or prior professional activities, I have gathered (basic) experience with dynamic simulation and structural testing.
• I have notions about multibody and finite-element simulation.
• I am proficient in programming basic methods in MATLAB and/or Python.
• As a PhD researcher of the KU Leuven Mecha(tro)nic System Dynamics Group I perform research in a structured and scientifically sound manner. I read technical papers, understand the nuances between different theories and implement and improve methodologies myself., To apply for this position, please follow the application tool and enclose:1. full CV - mandatory2. motivation letter - mandatory3. full list of credits and grades of both BSc and MSc degrees (as well as their transcription to English if possible) - mandatory (when you haven't finished your degree yet, just provide us with the partial list of already available credits and grades)4. proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, …) - if available5. two reference letters - if available6. an English version of MSc or PhD thesis, or of a recent publication or assignment - if available

• A remuneration package competitive with industry standards in Belgium, a country with a high quality of life and excellent health care system.
• An opportunity to pursue a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, typically a 4 year trajectory, in a stimulating and ambitious research environment.
• Ample occasions to develop yourself in a scientific and/or an industrial direction. Besides opportunities offered by the research group, further doctoral training for PhD candidates is provided in the framework of the KU Leuven Arenberg Doctoral School (https://set.kuleuven.be/phd), known for its strong focus on both future scientists and scientifically trained professionals who will valorise their doctoral expertise and competences in a non-academic context. More information on the training opportunities can be found on the following link: https://set.kuleuven.be/phd/do...;
• A stay in a vibrant environment in the hearth of Europe. The university is located in Leuven, a town of approximately 100000 inhabitants, located close to Brussels (25km), and 20 minutes by train from Brussels International Airport. This strategic positioning and the strong presence of the university, international research centers, and industry, lead to a safe town with high quality of life, welcoming to non-Dutch speaking people and with ample opportunities for social and sport activities. The mixture of cultures and research fields are some of the ingredients making the university of Leuven the most innovative university in Europe (https://nieuws.kuleuven.be/en/...). Further information can be found on the website of the university: https://www.kuleuven.be/englis....

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