⛔ This position is no longer available.
University: Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Country: Belgium
Deadline: 2026-04-19
Fields: Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, Electronics, Informatics, Artificial Intelligence
Are you passionate about harnessing artificial intelligence to advance medical imaging and improve patient care? If you are eager to contribute to groundbreaking research at the intersection of AI and healthcare, then this fully funded PhD position at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium could be the opportunity you have been seeking.
About the University or Research Institute
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a renowned research university located in the vibrant and multicultural city of Brussels, Belgium. With a legacy of over 50 years, VUB stands as a beacon of freedom, equality, and solidarity in higher education. The university fosters a diverse and inclusive academic environment, welcoming students and staff from all backgrounds and nationalities.
VUB’s commitment to pioneering research is reflected in its membership in EUTOPIA, an alliance of European universities dedicated to driving innovation and societal progress. The university’s four campuses are seamlessly integrated into Brussels, a city known for its international outlook, cultural richness, and central position in Europe.
VUB is the largest Dutch-speaking private sector employer in Brussels, with a workforce of around 4,000 employees. The university’s open and creative approach to scientific inquiry ensures that students and researchers are encouraged to think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to solutions for real-world challenges.
Research Topic and Significance
The offered PhD position is centered on medical image analysis and artificial intelligence, with a focus on developing generative AI methods for medical image generation and dimensionality enhancement. This research is part of the ELEVATE project, which aims to create next-generation AI models capable of producing anatomically accurate, patient-specific 3D and 4D representations of musculoskeletal (MSK) structures in the lower limbs.
The significance of this research lies in its potential to bridge the gap between advanced imaging modalities (such as 3D/4D CT and fluoroscopy) and routine clinical imaging (like 2D/3D scans and surface measurements). By leveraging cutting-edge AI techniques, the project seeks to enable clinicians to generate detailed anatomical models from simple, accessible data, thus improving diagnostic accuracy, treatment planning, and patient outcomes.
This work is highly relevant in today’s healthcare landscape, where there is an increasing demand for personalized medicine, efficient diagnostic tools, and cost-effective imaging solutions. The integration of AI in medical image analysis not only enhances clinical workflows but also opens new avenues for translational research and innovation in biomedical engineering.
Project Details
The successful candidate will join the ETRO research group at VUB’s Department of Electronics and Informatics (ETRO.RDI), a core member of IMEC – the world-leading research center in nanoelectronics and digital technologies. The ETRO group specializes in micro- and optoelectronics, multidimensional signal processing, and audiovisual computing, and maintains strong collaborations with UZ Brussel, the university hospital recognized for excellence in clinical and translational research.
Under the supervision of Prof. Jef Vandemeulebroucke, the PhD student will contribute to the core AI pipeline of the ELEVATE project. Responsibilities include designing and validating generative models (such as diffusion, autoencoder, and GAN-based approaches) that can infer missing anatomical information and simulate realistic, biomechanics-aware transformations.
The research will be conducted in close collaboration with clinical and imaging partners at UZ Brussel, as well as other academic and industrial collaborators within the ELEVATE consortium. This ensures that the developed solutions are aligned with real-world clinical needs and have clear pathways for practical implementation and valorization.
In addition to research activities, the PhD candidate will be involved in department functions such as supervising practical classes and representing VUB at academic events. The primary workplace will be VUB’s Main Campus in Etterbeek, with regular collaboration at the VUB Health Campus in Jette.
Candidate Profile
This position is suited for candidates with a strong academic background and a genuine interest in interdisciplinary research at the interface of AI and medical imaging. Ideal applicants will possess:
– A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, Electronics & Informatics Engineering, or a closely related field.
– Strong scientific writing and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams comprising clinicians and engineers.
– Proficiency in programming, particularly in Python.
– Knowledge of medical image processing, machine learning, and deep learning techniques.
– Excellent command of written and spoken English for scientific communication.
Additional assets include:
– Experience with medical imaging packages (e.g., SimpleITK/ITK, nibabel) and anatomy/shape evaluation metrics.
– Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch and/or MONAI.
– Familiarity with programming in Python, C++, and relevant machine learning libraries.
– Experience with HPC/GPU computing for deep learning workloads.
Eligibility requirements include a Master’s degree awarded by a recognized institution in the EEA or Switzerland (or an equivalent qualification for non-EEA candidates), with the degree obtained within 24 months before March 2027. Candidates must also meet VUB’s residence and permit requirements.
VUB is committed to equal opportunities and values diversity, welcoming applicants regardless of gender, age, religion, ethnicity, disability, or neurodiversity.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted by 19 April 2026 via the official VUB job portal:
Required application documents:
– Curriculum Vitae (CV)
– Motivation letter
– Diploma (not required for VUB alumni)
The application process consists of an initial selection based on application files, followed by a job interview to discuss qualifications, experience, motivation, and suitability for the position.
Conclusion
This is a unique opportunity to join a leading European research university and contribute to transformative advances in medical image analysis and artificial intelligence. If you are driven by curiosity, innovation, and a desire to make a tangible impact in healthcare, consider applying for this prestigious PhD position at Vrije Universiteit Brussel. Explore the application link above for more details, and follow similar opportunities to shape your academic and professional future.
Questions & Answers
Question: What makes Belgium an attractive destination for PhD studies in medical image analysis?
Belgium offers a rich research ecosystem, excellent infrastructure, and a multicultural environment. Its central location in Europe provides access to leading institutions, collaborative networks, and a high quality of life.
Question: What are the benefits of joining the ETRO research group at VUB?
ETRO is a core member of IMEC and collaborates closely with UZ Brussel, providing access to cutting-edge technology, interdisciplinary expertise, and real-world clinical data. The group’s international composition and open academic culture foster innovation and professional growth.
Question: Are there additional benefits for PhD students at VUB?
Yes, PhD students enjoy extensive homeworking options, generous leave policies, hospitalisation insurance, commuting reimbursements, affordable campus facilities, and opportunities for continuous learning and career development.
Question: What kind of research training and collaboration can I expect?
You will participate in advanced training programs, collaborate with clinicians and engineers, and contribute to multidisciplinary projects with academic and industrial partners, ensuring your research has both academic excellence and real-world impact.
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