The Department of Movement Sciences is a research department that is part of the Biomedical Sciences Group of KU Leuven. Our mission is to increase the knowledge and understanding of human movement through a comprehensive approach. We are dedicated to exploring the complexity of the moving body at different levels, from subcellular mechanisms to systemic interactions.
We approach human movement across different research disciplines, investigating physiological, biomechanical, psychological and sociocultural factors. Our interdisciplinary approach enables us to bridge the gap between traditional scientific disciplines and develop holistic perspectives on movement. Through collaborative research and knowledge exchange, we aim to push the boundaries of movement sciences and drive innovation in our field.
Website unit
Project
This vacancy is part of an open call. Several research teams within the Department of Movement Sciences have written out a research project for which you can apply via this PhD vacancy. Info about the research projects and PhD teams can be consulted from March 21st 2025 onwards via the following webpage: https://gbiomed.kuleuven.be/english/research/50000737/vacancy/2025/research-projects-phd-vacancy-2025
Applying for this vacancy means that you choose one of these research projects based on your specific background, field of interest and preference. As a candidate, you should contact the supervisor team of your preferred project in advance, their contact details can be found on the webpage of the respective research project.
Profile
- You obtained a Master's degree in Physical Education and Movement Sciences, Rehabilitation Sciences, or in another relevant/related discipline; or you will obtain your Master's degree no later than July 2025.
- You are interested in scientific research and motivated to start a PhD.
- You are motivated to assist in the teaching assignments (e.g. practical courses) of staff members from the Department of Movement Sciences. It is considered an asset if you have experience as a teacher or trainer in one of the sports disciplines of the bachelor program of Physical Education and Movement Sciences of KU Leuven
- You have built up an excellent study and internship record.
- You have excellent oral and written communication skills, both in Dutch and in English
- You work hands-on, are accurate, eager to learn and have organisational skills.
- You enjoy working both independently and in a team.
- You have a flexible attitude.
Job description
- Doing scientific research in preparation of a PhD thesis: planning, organising and conducting scientific studies, data collection, statistical analyses, writing scientific articles.
- Supervising undergraduate internships and master's theses within your specific research domain.
- Assisting in the teaching assignments of staff members from the Department of Movement Sciences.
Offer
We offer a full-time employment for 1 year, renewable in case of a positive evaluation (up to a maximum of 4 years in total). The mandate starts from 1 October 2025. The research should result in a PhD thesis in 4 years. Within KU Leuven, the candidate joins the doctoral school ‘Exercise and Physical Activity in Health & Disease’ to obtain a PhD in Biomedical Sciences.
Weblink research projects
Interested?
In order to apply, please upload your motivation letter, your CV and the grades you obtained during your studies. At the top of your motivation letter, you should clearly indicate which research project you wish to apply for. Furthermore, you describe - among other things - why you want to do a PhD and why you are interested in the research project of your preference.
Interviews will be organised in May 2025.
For more information please contact Mrs. Evelien Nackaerts, tel.: +32 16 37 69 24, mail: evelien.nackaerts@kuleuven.be or Prof. dr. Jean-Jacques Orban de Xivry, tel.: +32 16 37 66 03, mail: jj.orban@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.
