In the evolving landscape of manufacturing processes and systems, electrochemical (micro)manufacturing techniques—spanning machining, accretion, and post-processing—are experiencing a notable resurgence. This shift marks a transition toward athermal fabrication methods for mechanical components, enabling the preservation of surface integrity and functional performance. Electrochemical postprocessing (EP) technologies are needed for high-quality surfaces to improve surface quality, remove surface defects (e.g. burrs) and post-fabrication features/artifacts on complex components, for net-zero products and moulds processed through different manufacturing techniques. However, with increasing shape complexity and development of advanced materials, additional challenges arise leading to shape deviation and inhomogeneous material removal during postprocessing, requiring innovation in EP technologies. The research will integrate investigation on postprocessing of advanced material and complex structures through line-of-sight and bulk EP techniques, the knowledge related to processing mechanisms and will consider starting surface as a consequence of preceding manufacturing process and workpiece material. Industrial support will be available for this research to validate on relevant use cases.

The project will have a sound mix of applied and fundamental research elements including hardware development, hands-on experiments, process simulation and/or in-process signal analysis, metallography and metrology, providing the PhD researcher the opportunity to develop multidisciplinary manufacturing expertise. Relevant state-of-the-art infrastructure, hardware and software are available in the lab to start this research.

To be successful you should:

• Be a motivated candidate with a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Production Engineering or a related field in Science and Engineering.
• Have strong interest in manufacturing with prior research or industrial experience.
• Have experience with experimental machines, practical knowledge of design of experiments, data analysis and presentation, and basic metallography and metrology techniques.
• Have knowledge of electrochemical manufacturing and electrochemistry analysis techniques (preferred but not mandatory).
• Have a critical mindset and able to formulate research questions.
• Have good social and communication skills to work in a team.
• Have good knowledge of English is necessary

The start of PhD is planned for 1st November 2025 but is negotiable. The offer will include:

• A fully funded and full-time PhD position for 4 years. The contract will be extended each year based on annual progress.
• Excellent guidance by the experienced, international and multidisciplinary team.
• Access to world-class research infrastructure at a reputed research group in a top ranked university .
• Opportunities to network and present your research at international conferences.
• A remuneration package competitive with industry standards in Belgium, a country with a high quality of life and an excellent health care system.

To apply, use the KU Leuven online application platform (applications by email are not considered). Applications should ideally include:

- CV and a Cover letter with research interests and career goals, indicating why you are interested in this position.

- A PDF of your degrees (Bachelor and Master) and transcripts.

- At least two references: names, phone numbers and email addresses.

Please send your application using the online KU Leuven form as soon as possible.  Apply by August 31st, 2025. Starting Date: Immediate start possible, preferably by October/November 1st 2025.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. ir. Krishna Kumar Saxena, tel.: +32 16 32 15 43, mail: krishna.saxena@kuleuven.be or Dr. ir. Muhammad Hazak Arshad, tel.: +32 16 37 48 75, mail: muhammadhazak.arshad@kuleuven.be.