We invite applications for a fully-funded PhD position in Dynamic management for multimodal transport systems. This position represents an exciting opportunity to join a newly established research team at KU Leuven, working within the renowned Centre for Industrial Management, Traffic and Infrastructure (CIB).
Our group focuses on developing innovative operational management solutions for transport and mobility challenges, benefiting from strong international collaborations. As part of CIB, you will work in an interdisciplinary international environment addressing technological developments, societal trends, and individual needs related to mobility, with a particular focus on intelligent transport systems, operational research, and transport system analysis.
Project
The emergence of Connected, Cooperative and Automated Mobility (CCAM) is set to revolutionise how we understand and manage road traffic. While current research often focuses on vehicle-level automation, the true potential lies in the mutual adaptation between vehicles and infrastructure, where both can dynamically respond to changing conditions and requirements. This doctoral research aims to develop innovative approaches for future traffic systems where infrastructure and vehicles collaborate through connectivity and cooperation to achieve system-wide benefits.
The research will specifically address one or more of the following topics:
- Mutual dynamic adaptation between infrastructure configuration and vehicle behaviour, considering vehicle capabilities and traffic composition
- Infrastructure-supported coordination strategies leveraging vehicle connectivity
- Network-wide optimisation considering varying levels of connectivity, cooperation, and automation
- Proactive management strategies anticipating and responding to emerging vehicle technologies
- Dynamic capacity allocation through infrastructure-vehicle cooperation
The research will develop novel modelling frameworks capturing the complexity of future traffic systems. Building upon traffic flow theory and vehicle dynamics fundamentals, we will create new mathematical representations of cooperative driving behaviour and vehicle-infrastructure interactions. These models will form the basis for developing advanced control strategies that can effectively manage the transition towards increasingly connected and automated mobility. Special attention will be given to the theoretical foundations ensuring the robustness and stability of the proposed approaches across different penetration rates of emerging technologies.
Profile
We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated candidate with
Required Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Transportation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, or related fields
- Knowledge of quantitative methods used in engineering and skills in applying such methods to solve engineering problems
- Programming skills (Python, MATLAB, or similar)
- Excellent command of English (both written and spoken)
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Desired Skills:
- Knowledge of traffic flow theory and vehicle dynamics
- Experience with traffic simulation and assessment tools
- Demonstrated involvement in connected/automated driving or traffic management projects
Offer
We offer:
- A fully funded PhD scholarship, with an initial appointment for 12 months, to be extended for subsequent years (up to four) on the condition of a positive evaluation
- Multiple benefits including funding to attend international conferences or schools and access to state-of-the-art research facilities and computing resources
- Integration into a young, dynamic research team with strong international connections and the opportunity to collaborate with established research groups in the field
- Flexible working hours, with the possibility of working remotely for a few days a week
- A specialized doctoral training performed in the framework of the Arenberg doctoral school: https://set.kuleuven.be/phd
- An attractive salary according to KU Leuven pay scales (see https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/en/phd/phd-information)
- A vibrant academic environment in the historic city of Leuven
As part of our dynamic research team, you will have the opportunity to:
- Conduct high-quality research leading to publications in top journals and scientific conferences
- Participate actively in research proposal preparation and project development
- Guide master's students in their thesis projects
- Contribute to teaching activities in the master's programme where applicable
You can apply for this job via the online application tool by providing the following documents:
- Motivation letter with contact information and preferred starting date (max one A4 page)
- Description of research interests for the dissertation (max two A4 pages)
- CV and contact information for 2 reference persons (max two A4 pages)
- Summary of the Master's Thesis (max one A4 page)
- A certificate proving your proficiency in English
Interested?
For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Claudio Roncoli, email: claudio.roncoli@kuleuven.be.
KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.