KU Leuven invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on the quasi-static and dynamic behaviour of low- and high-density additively manufactured lattice structures under multi-axial loading. This position is part of the prestigious MSCA CUSTOM Doctoral Network, offering international training, research mobility, and advanced interdisciplinary research exposure.
Important Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | PhD in Quasi-static & Dynamic Behaviour of AM Lattice Structures (MSCA CUSTOM) |
| Organization | KU Leuven |
| Work Location | Leuven, Belgium |
| Department | Mechanical Engineering / MaPS Division / Additive Manufacturing Group |
| Research Field | Additive Manufacturing, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering |
| Funding Info | Fully Funded + MSCA allowances (living, mobility, family if applicable) |
| Application Deadline | February 5, 2026 |
| Country | Belgium |
| Researcher Profile | Early-Stage Researcher (No previous PhD) |
| Apply Button | Apply via KU Leuven online application portal |
| Required Qualification | MSc in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related field |
| Required Experience | Mechanical testing, materials characterization; experience in AM preferred |
| Salary Details | MSCA Doctoral Network funding (living, mobility, and eligible family allowances) |
Overview
KU Leuven—ranked among Europe’s top research-intensive universities—announces a fully funded PhD position within the Additive Manufacturing (AM) research group, supervised by Prof. Bey Vrancken. This PhD is part of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Network CUSTOM, a multidisciplinary program focused on next-generation patient-specific shoulder implants.
The project addresses the critical challenge of understanding how additively manufactured lattice structures behave under multi-axial loading conditions—crucial for biomedical implants and aerospace applications.
Project Scope
The CUSTOM project integrates design, manufacturing, and testing to revolutionize the future of shoulder implants. This PhD will specifically focus on:
Key Research Objectives
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Process Investigation
Optimize Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) parameters for lattice structures, especially those with >50% relative density. -
Specimen Fabrication
Develop test samples suitable for multi-axial torsion + tension/compression loading. -
Mechanical Behaviour Analysis
Study how lattice orientation influences anisotropic mechanical behavior under complex load patterns. -
Performance Optimization
Identify lattice types and densities that best replicate bone and cartilage mechanical performance for implants. -
Applications Beyond Healthcare
Research outcomes may also contribute to aviation, aerospace, and lightweight structural components.
Secondments / Mobility
The PhD includes two international research stays:
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Amnovis (Belgium) – Sample fabrication with modified geometries & multi-axial loading performance.
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Semmelweiss University (Hungary) – Accelerated corrosion testing to assess its influence on mechanical properties.
Candidate Profile
To be considered, applicants must:
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Hold a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related field.
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Have experience in mechanical testing and materials characterization (e.g., metallography).
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Demonstrate strong English communication skills (TOEFL ≥ 94 or IELTS ≥ 7).
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Be able to work independently and collaborate in international research settings.
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MSCA Mobility Rule: Must not have spent more than 12 months in Belgium in the last 36 months.
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Must not already possess a PhD.
Experience in metal additive manufacturing is an advantage.
Funding & Benefits
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Fully funded MSCA Doctoral Fellowship.
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Attractive living and mobility allowances, plus family allowances where applicable.
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Enrollment in the PhD program in Engineering Science at KU Leuven.
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Advanced training through MSCA CUSTOM network (17 doctoral candidates across EU).
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International conferences, research collaborations, and career development.
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Located in Leuven—one of Europe’s safest, most vibrant university cities.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted on or before February 5, 2026 using the official KU Leuven online application tool.
For academic inquiries:
Prof. dr. ir. Bey Vrancken
Email: bey.vrancken@kuleuven.be
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