1-year postdoc position in Operations Research

The ORSTAT research group at the Faculty of Economics and Business of KU Leuven (Belgium) conducts internationally leading research in Operations Research (OR) and Statistics. Our work addresses challenging problems in combinatorial optimization, stochastic modeling, and data-driven decision-making.
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Responsibilities

ORSTAT invites applications for a full-time postdoctoral researcher in OR, starting in or around October 2026 for a period of one year. The successful candidate will work closely with prof. Roel Leus on advancing the state of the art in decision diagram-based methods for combinatorial optimization, including the development of new theory, algorithms, and high-impact applications. The candidate is expected to develop novel research directions and publish in leading journals, while being encouraged to pursue independent ideas within the broader research theme. In addition, the researcher will engage in collaborations within ORSTAT and with international partners in the OR community, co-supervise PhD students, and contribute to the preparation of competitive research proposals.

We offer a dynamic and stimulating research environment with strong international visibility.  This position offers the opportunity to contribute to methodological advances with applications across a wide range of complex optimization problems.

Profile

The ideal candidate holds a PhD in Operations Research, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or a related field, and has a strong background in mathematical programming, combinatorial optimization, or algorithm design. Candidates should demonstrate a strong publication record or clear potential to publish in leading international journals, and evidence of research independence and creativity is highly valued. Experience with decision diagrams or related methodologies is considered an asset, as is experience in international research environments. Interest or experience in grant writing and collaboration building will be seen as an advantage.

Offer

We offer a full-time postdoctoral position for one year at KU Leuven. Depending on performance and funding opportunities, possibilities for extension or follow-up positions may be explored. The position comes with a competitive salary and benefits in accordance with KU Leuven policies, and provides a stimulating international research environment with opportunities for collaboration and career development. The tentative starting date is October 1, 2026 (flexible upon mutual agreement).

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Roel Leus, mail: [email protected]. Applications should include a concise motivation letter, CV, and contact details of referees.

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