Doctoral Programme in Engineering Science (Leuven)

Education

First and foremost, the doctoral training takes place within the research group or the lab through informal and formal meetings with the promotor and fellow researchers. This research-based training is completed by more structural training activities organised by the departments, research centres and the Doctoral School. It is expected of PhD students that they finish their doctorate within 4 years.

The doctoral programme is made up of three components:

1. the development of essential research skills by carrying out an individual research plan that results in scientific output of outstanding quality;
2. a thematic training that consists of advanced courses, invited lectures, journal clubs and doctoral seminars about a specific scientific subject;
3. training and development of personal skills that are relevant for a successful completion of the doctorate and that prepare you for a wide range of professional possibilities.

International

You work on your doctorate in an internationally oriented research environment and you regularly have the chance to meet other researchers at home and abroad. KU Leuven is a part of different international networks. At the doctoral level there are international doctoral programmes such as EMJD, ITN en EIT KIC.

It is possible to do your doctorate in a joint or dual degree with another university.

Assets

Doing your PhD at KU Leuven gives you the opportunity to conduct research in an internationally competitive environment under the supervision of professors that enjoy a strong international reputation. You will gain in-depth knowledge of fundamental or concrete subjects within your field of research with the intention to provide a personal contribution.