How To Write A Phd Thesis On Ageing In A Developing Country

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1 2015 OAS/VUB Scholarship Program - List of Research Areas and Supervisors # 1 Name supervisor Prof. Dr. Alex Housen VUB faculty & department Arts and Philosophy - Linguistics and Literary Studies (TALK) PhD subject Short description of the subject [email protected] Second Language Acquisition * The nature and role of cognitive mechanisms in the process of Second Language Acquisition (e.g. noticing, attention, awareness/consciousness,, implicit vs. explicit L2 learning, working/short-term/long-term memory, declarative & procedural knowledge, aptitude) * Systematicity (stages, sequences) and variability in productive and receptive second language (L2) development (of vocabulary, morphology and syntax) * Complexity, accuracy and fluency in L2 production, L2 proficiency and L2 development * The role, effects and effectiveness of different types of instruction (e.g. implicit vs. explicit form-focused, inductive, deductive) on SLA. * Factors, processes and outcomes in various forms of second language teaching and multilingual education. * Mechanisms and factors in second Other comments (e.g. max. number of PhD students, specific work environment, etc.) Max. two PhD students. PhD candidates will join the research team MULTI-L. MULTI-L currently consists of 7 faculty members (ZAP), 6 of whom are full-time appointed at the VUB and/or EhB, 8 fulltime predoctoral researchers and 8 other scientific members. Team website e/talk/?q =user/ Alternate Team Website

2 2 Prof. Dr. Johan Callens Arts and Philosophy - Linguistics and Literary Studies (TALK) [email protected] US theatre and drama text-based and/or performance-based analyses, from Eugene O'Neill onwards (20th & 21st centuries); textual and/or intermedial adaptation preliminary degree(s) and course work in drama and/or theatre studies strongly recommended; advanced knowledge of English required e/talk/?q =user/ Prof. Dr. An Vande Casteele Arts and Philosophy - Linguistics and Literary Studies An.Vande.Casteele@ vub.ac.be Discourse analysis of Spanish as a Second Language Discourse analysis of Spanish as a Second Language Corpusbased research on the pragmatic competence of Spanish language learners: use of cohesive ties, discourse markers, referential strategies, speech act realization patterns in language learner s discourse Applicants should hold a Master's degree in Spanish linguistics or equivalent, and must have completed a Master's thesis on a linguistic topic. They should have an excellent (native or nearnative) command of Spanish and English. The PhD project will be carried out in the CLIN research group (Centre for Linguistics) and will be part of the Multi-L-research team investigating multilingualism, language learning and language education. e/talk/?q =en/user/2 7828

3 4 Prof. Dr. Gily Coene Arts and Philosophy - Philosophy and Ethics / Rhea, Centre of Expertise in Gender, Diversity and intersectionlity [email protected] gender/intersectio nality we welcome proposals on a broad range of subjects that are related to gender and intersectionality (ethnicity, sexuality, citizenship, culture, religion,... ) Student from different disciplinary backgrounds are eligible. The PhD students (max. 2) will work in the context of Rhea, the Centre of Expertise in Gender, Diversity and Intersectionality at VUB. Rhea covers different research areas: for more information: please see our new Rhea - website. e/rhea/en /whoiswho /gily-coene 5 Prof. dr. Dominique Verté - Prof. dr. Liesbeth De Donder Psychology and Sciences liesbeth.de.donder@ vub.ac.be Ageing Studies The population is aging rapidly. Both the United Nations as the WHO have stressed that integration and inclusion in society of older people deserves unremitting research and policy attention. This research area focuses on the intersections of social gerontological issues, education, citizenship, social- and policy participation. Potential topics of inquiry are: Social inclusion and civic participation in later life: volunteering, social participation, political participation and decision-making, education, cultural participation Ageing in place: Housing and neighbourhood / living environment Community development and social networks in later life Intergenerational Solidarity Frailty (from a bio-psycho-social perspective) Quality in (informal) care, elder mistreatment and abuse Older people living in poverty, structural disadvantage and issues of exclusion and unsafety Diversity and ageing migrants Mental health, psychological well-being Safety, crime and prison More than one PhD possible e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=82

4 6 Prof. Dr. Tine Buffel Psychology and Sciences ster.ac.uk Experiences of place and neighborhood in later life Neighborhoods contribute significantly to shaping their residents' everyday life. In later life, the neighborhood may become even more important. Ageing can be associated with an intensification of feelings about place and locality, and attachments to the neighborhood may significantly shape the experience of ageing. Despite the acknowledged importance of community environments, the meaning and role of neighborhoods for older people remains under explored. Research is needed to understand the relationships between older adults and their immediate environment in a range of different communities. Max number of PhD students: 3 e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=101 7 Prof. Dr. Tine Buffel Psychology and Sciences Tine.buffel@manche ster.ac.uk Ageing migrants Population ageing and urbanization are two of the most significant social trends of the twenty-first century. Urban aging populations have also become increasingly diverse as a result of international migration. Global cities host large numbers of older migrant populations with diverse characteristics, including some of the most affluent and accomplished and som of the most deprived and socially excluded. This research theme explores experiences of place and community among aging migrants, both in relation to their current neighborhood, as well as in relation to their transnational ties and practices. A number of studies have suggested that older migrants' relationships to 'locality' must be understood in relation to these transnational ties, in that they often stay 'connected' with (and are simultaneously influenced by) more than one culture and place at the same time. This theme will focus on how 'home' is experienced, negotiated and understood in the context of people's migration trajectories. Max number of students: 2 e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=101

5 8 Prof. Dr. Tine Buffel Psychology and Sciences ster.ac.uk Developing "agefriendly" communities This research theme focuses on the issue of developing 'agefriendly communities'. These have been defined as encouraging 'active ageing by optimizing opportunities for health, participation and security in order to enhance quality of life as people age (WHO, 2007). In 2010, the World Health Organization (WHO) launched the Global Network of Age- Friendly Cities and Communities (AFCC), which by May 2014 spanned 26 countries worldwide with 210 cities and communities already enrolled in the programme. The AFCC Network has been especially influential in raising awareness about the need to adapt urban environments to the demands of an ageing population. It identifies a number of domains important for older people, including actions at the level of the social and physical environment (e.g. housing, civic participation, transportation, outdoor spaces, communication and information, social inclusion,...). This research theme aims to identify the issues older residents themselves view as important in developing the age-friendliness of their neighborhood. In terms of the methodology, older people will be involved not only as the research target group, but also as experts and actors in the development of the study (through e.g. training, walking interviews, visual methodologies (photos),... Max number of PhD students: 3 e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=101 9 Prof. Dr. Tine Buffel Psychology and Sciences tine.buffel@manche ster.ac.uk Community Development - Social capital - neighborhood This research theme is quite open and may focus on a range of themes including: community development, community building, social capital, social inequality, poverty, urban social networks, place attachment, urban change, migration and ageing Max number of students: 1 e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=101

6 10 Prof. Dr. Maurice de Greef Psychology and Sciences om The functions of Lifelong Learning for adults in 2020 What are the most relevant functions of adult education to different sectors for the nowadays society, referring to care, welfare, labour market, education, liveability etc. Suggestion is start up a cross national research in order to compare the difference between the current functions in the different fields and to compare this with the wishes of the organisations and the needs of policymakers on one hand and the participants themselves on the other. Not applicable. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id= Prof. Dr. Maurice de Greef Psychology and Sciences [email protected] om The power of adult education for policy makers Adult education can be a lever in order to increase participation in daily life on the labour market. Most interesting question is how the connection between adult educators and policy makers can be realised in order to serve policy-makers with the provision of adult education. A research should be conducted in which the vision and needs of policy makers can be conncted to those of adult educators and managers of adult education centers. Not applicable e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=27467

7 12 13 Prof. Dr. Maurice de Greef Prof. Dr. Chang Zhu Psychology and Sciences Psychology and Sciences om Senior learning the needed strength for nowadays society Blended learning and e-learning Most of nowadays industrialised countries have to cope with the challenges of an ongoing ageing society. More and more people are getting older and have to find their place in society after their retirement. Due to the economic crisis this group seems to be a threat in terms of increasing costs in our society. But on the other hand due to the fact that most of the industrialised countries are knowledge societies we should use the competencies of these well experienced gorup of our society. Their knowledge, skills and attitude can help others in society to connect to labour market or find a better place in daily life (to be called better social inclusion). This study needs to find out which leerning needs and possibilities there are for older poeple and how their knowledge, skills and attitudes can be used in order to benefit nowadays society for adults, children and youngsters. The use of blended learning and e-learning can be important strategies for universities and schools to implement educational innovations. Many issues are related to the successful implementation of blended learning and e-learning. This topic is also highly relevant for developing countries. The PhD research in this field will focus on specific research models that can be applicable for developing countries and investigate the issues related to the design of blended learning and e- learning, as well as the quality and effectiveness of blended learning and e-learning. - Applicants should have a Master degree in science, Psychology or related areas, with knowledge and expertise in learning theories, and/or learning technologies, etc. The candidate is also required to have knowledge and skills in quantitative statistical analysis and qualitative data analysis. Students with educational experience in related fields, with a strongly demonstrated motivation, are also encouraged to apply. Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is a prerequisite given the international context of the research topics. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=27467 e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person_ pub.php?p erson_id=2 8189

8 14 15 Prof. Dr. Chang Zhu Prof. Dr. Chang Zhu Psychology and Sciences Psychology and Sciences ICT-Supported education and blended learning Teacher professional development for innovative teaching ICT-supported learning and social inclusion in Adult education Teachers are the key actors in the teaching and learning process. In order to be more innovative in teaching, teachers need to develop their competences in engaging in innovative teaching. The competences can be related to pedagogical competences, technological competences, social competences, etc. The PhD research in this topic will focus on the teacher professional development framework and relevant competences. Teachers competences related to innovative teaching will be investigated and relevant professional development models need to be validated. Applicants should have a Master degree in science, Psychology or related areas, with knowledge and expertise in learning theories, and/or learning technologies, etc. The candidate is also required to have knowledge and skills in quantitative statistical analysis and qualitative data analysis. Students with educational experience in related fields, with a strongly demonstrated motivation, are also encouraged to apply. Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is a prerequisite given the international context of the research topics. Applicants should have a Master degree in science, Psychology or related areas, with knowledge and expertise in learning theories, and/or learning technologies, etc. The candidate is also required to have knowledge and skills in quantitative statistical analysis and qualitative data analysis. Students with educational experience in related fields, with a strongly demonstrated motivation, are also encouraged to apply. Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is a prerequisite given the international context of the research topics. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person_ pub.php?p erson_id= e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person_ pub.php?p erson_id=2 8189

9 16 Prof. Dr. Chang Zhu Psychology and Sciences e The role of MOOCs in higher education Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are still in the development trend. What are the considerations and influencing factors with regard to policy, teaching and learning effectiveness, assessment and quality? The PhD research will focus on the perceptions, trends, policies, assessment and quality of MOOCs in different countries and different higher education institutions. Applicants should have a Master degree in science, Psychology or related areas, with knowledge and expertise in learning theories, and/or learning technologies, etc. The candidate is also required to have knowledge and skills in quantitative statistical analysis and qualitative data analysis. Students with educational experience in related fields, with a strongly demonstrated motivation, are also encouraged to apply. Fluency in English (both spoken and written) is a prerequisite given the international context of the research topics. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person_ pub.php?p erson_id= Prof.Dr. Koen DEPRYCK Psychology & Sciences [email protected] c.be key competences in primary, secondary and adult education This research focusses on how transversal key competences may be included in primary, secondary and adult education (second chance to learn for immigrants, inmates, dropouts, ). Aspects of the research include the concept of key competences, the didactics of teaching them, and their assessment. Special attention is paid to the interaction of formal, non-formal and informal learning as well as to the role of ICT and self-directed learning for each of the target groups. 2 or 3 students. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=88

10 18 Prof. Dr. Tom Vanwing Psychology & Edulab Connecting teachers, preparing for the future Introduction: Teachers are multipliers. Technologies are accelerators. These are beautiful phrases, but what do they mean in the real world, beyond something aspirational and inspirational Teachers Without Borders was founded in 2000 in order to connect teachers to information and each other so that they may make a local change, on a global scale. These doctoral projects reflect pressing needs in the developing world. The issue of educational development itself requires a multidisciplinary approach. Teacher professional development needs to be supported by solid research. All students participating in these projects will connect their research to actionable projects of direct benefit to teaching communities of practice, worldwide. The founder of Teachers Without Borders, prof. dr. Fred Mednick is collaborting in these pioneering research themes: Is the international educational ngo out of date? Changing nature of educational ngo s and the creating of new models for international teacher development. Reinventing the global educational ngo for the 21st century. An opportunity to study the impacts of ICTs and educational development geared toward teachers in Latin America and the Caribbean. What is working? Why? What is not working? What are the obstacles? What is the connection between ICT policy and outcomes? How might current research lead to a transformational policy? Open Resources (OER) hold promise as a key lever in educational transformation. They challenge teacher professional development and the textbook industry. Promises, however, need research proof, What are the challenges and opportunities of OER in Latin America and the Caribbean? In your own country, what must be necessary in order OER to make an impact one can measure? What measurements can be established? The key focus of OER is its ability to be adapted. What makes content portable from one region to the other? Youth entrepreneurship has received scant attention, worldwide, especially as we experience a youth bulge. What are schools doing or not doing in Latin America? How can educational transformation meet the needs of youth for the 21st century? In an era of MOOCs and escalating attention, universities cannot expect to attract an audience of high-paying students. What might be the criteria for a first-rate, world-class education for the 21st century? How might badges and 5 phd positions e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=77

11 competencies compete with a diploma? 19 Prof. Dr. Tom Vanwing Psychology & Edulab [email protected] Emerging teachers in development countries in content focused professional development, followed by lesson study, how this it allow for unique professional experiences? Deepening teachers understanding through content knowledge by making connections with the real world through lesson study, collaborative mentoring & learning by doing, f.e. in learning mathematics. In collaboration with prof. dr. Padmanabhan Seshaiyer. 2 Phd's e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=77

12 20 Prof. Dr. Tom Vanwing Psychology & Edulab Academic Curriculum Development & Sustainable Development Projects were realized to develop masters of science in education & research for Sustainable Development in the Latin American Region & the Carribean. Objective is to continue from this experience to research the relevance & design for regional interconnected master programs. Multidisciplinarity, multifunctionality & locally adapted education & research are the didactional scope. 1 PhD. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=77 21 Prof. Dr. Tom Vanwing Psychology & Edulab [email protected] Social & cultural Transitions for Sustainable Development & (human) Ecology From an orientation on communities the subthemes look from a multidisciplinary perspective into: local community assets in a globalizing context, community development & empowerment; Elements of livelyhood (in realtion to forestry, coastal zones), civil participation, social inclusion, cultural empowerment, woman studies, subcultures within youth and young adult groups. 2-3 Phd's. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=77

13 22 Prof. Dr. Tom Vanwing Psychology & Edulab Adult Education & nonformal learning in Latin-America & the Carribean Subtheme's are: Rural Education, Literacy, Cultural selfawareness for minorities & distant communities, gender & education, urbanisation & impact on education, professional education, micro-entrepreneurship, education in leisure time (sports, culture). All in the framework of human development and Education for Sustainable Development. 2 PhD's e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=77 23 Prof. Dr. Tom Vanwing Psychology & Edulab [email protected] Teacher Education & innovation This research group is involved in teacher education in Latin America and the Carribean. Subthemes are: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics in teacher curricula for primary, secundary education; Area & community based education in teacher programs Life skills in teacher curricula; Rural education settings & community involvement. 3-4 PhD's e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=77

14 24 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Psychology & Edulab b.ac.be Analysis of initiation and implementation processes of innovative learning environments in formal, higher and adult education and lifelong learning Analysis of initiation and implementation processes of innovative learning environments in formal, higher and adult education and lifelong learning (more than one PhD possible) e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h 25 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Psychology & Edulab Koen.Lombaerts@vu b.ac.be Analysis of conditions to introduce and implement educational innovation projects Analysis of conditions to introduce and implement educational innovation projects (e.g. self-regulated learning, mobile and e- learning, learning communities, ) More than one PhD possible e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h

15 26 27 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab Edulab b.ac.be b.ac.be Young children s self-regulation: self-regulation in pre-school The role of student characteristics in teachers efforts to promote selfregulated learning policy and practice increasingly recognize the importance of self-regulation for students academic performance as well as motivation. Self-regulation refers to strategies that students can use to direct their cognition, metacognition and motivation. Self-regulation strategies for example include task analysis, planning, activation of prior knowledge, effective help-seeking, and self-assessment. Such strategies mostly do not develop automatically. Teachers play a crucial role in equipping students with the necessary selfregulation skills. Importantly, it is recommended to start instruction of self-regulation early in students educational careers. Research so far has largely focused on self-regulation in primary, secondary, and higher education. Research in preschool is rather limited and mainly focuses on students rather than teachers. Hence, this research explores Flemish pre-school teachers perceptions about self-regulation in daily pre-school practice. Different research questions can be addressed: How do pre-school teachers personally define their pupils selfregulation? What are pre-school teachers perceptions on the role of self-regulation in pre-school? How do pre-school teachers stimulate their pupils self-regulation? To what extent is self-regulation incorporated into the curriculum and/or school policy documents? policy and practice increasingly recognize the importance of self-regulation for students academic performance as well as motivation. Self-regulation refers to strategies that students can use to direct their cognition, metacognition and motivation. Self-regulation strategies for example include task analysis, planning, activation of prior knowledge, effective help-seeking, and self-assessment. Such strategies mostly do not develop automatically. Teachers play a crucial role in equipping students with the necessary selfregulation skills. Although most teachers believe in the feasibility and desirability of self-regulation in primary education, many teachers today still don t put their beliefs into practice. Teachers face obstacles on different levels: pupil, teacher, school, parents, and policy. This research looks into the role of pupil characteristics and background (e.g. cognitive ability, language and learning problems, socio-economic status, and ethnic background). Research question: To what extent do Multiple students and research questions are possible. Multiple students and research questions possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h

16 primary school teachers believe their students influence their efforts to create more space for student autonomy, and to stimulate students self-regulated learning? 28 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab b.ac.be Teacher professionalization through mobile learning Although much remains to be done, ICT is gradually being introduced into regular classroom practice. Parallel to student learning, ICT has the potential to enhance teachers professional learning. Mobile learning, for example, may counter downsides of more traditional forms of professionalization. Mobile learning could, for example, speed up the necessary transfer of new educational insights resulting from research to teachers; it allows for learning on the move and at times suitable for each individual; and it offers possibilities for collaboration, quick access to alternative viewpoints, and reflection-in-action rather than reflection-onaction (Aubusson, Schuck, & Burden, 2009). Moreover, it offers an interesting professionalization track for teachers working in remote areas. Potential research questions: What are teachers perceptions about mobile technologies? To what extent do teachers use mobile technologies for their private life? To what extent do teachers use mobile technologies for their professional life? To what extent do teachers have and use mobile technologies such as smart phone and tablets? To what extent is mobile learning integrated What conditions need to be met before mobile learning can become effective? Multiple students and research questions possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h

17 29 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab b.ac.be School drop-out in secondary education The literature on gender-differential academic achievement in the secondary education shows theoretical and methodological hiatuses and shortcomings. Despite actions taken to bridge the gender gap, the phenomenon still manifests itself: boys as a group perform worse at school compared to girls, repeat a year more often, are more numerous in special education, they manifest more (class)disruptive and risk behaviour, they are overrepresented in dropout, and enter higher education to a lesser degree. Researchers substantiate that youngsters should be stimulated and inspired to explore and engage themselves during scholastic activities (Rubin, 2007; Schwartz, 2002). One way to bring the learning and school environment in early secondary education in accordance with the living environment of youngsters consists in maximizing their active contribution during learning processes. Teachers play a crucial role in the development of self-regulated learning (SRL) (Zimmerman, 2002). Indeed, Perry and colleagues (Perry & VandeKamp, 2000; Perry et al., 2004) repeatedly indicated that adjustments teachers made to the learning environment and their teaching practices had positive effects on their pupils development of SRL. Recent research reported teachers to be favourably disposed towards an introduction of self-regulated learning in primary school (Lombaerts et al., 2007; Lombaerts et al., 2009). Although the overall occurrence of actual selfregulated learning practices was limited, some teaching environments were considered to highly stimulate selfregulated learning (Lombaerts, Engels & Vanderfaillie, 2007). Multiple options and research questions are possible. Multiple students possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h

18 30 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab b.ac.be Student and faculty perceptions of the use of online Open Resources (OER) to supplement oncampus courses When the concept of Open Resources emerges, many advocates predict it would be a disruptive technology, which could spark great transformation in global education landscape. UNESCO (2012) has recognized the value of OER by arguing that they provide a strategic opportunity to improve the quality of education as well as facilitate policy dialogue, knowledge sharing and capacity building. Despite the great potential OER as an innovative technology might bring into the field of education, its use in higher education and adult education is quite low (OPAL, 2010). There have been numerous calls for research that demonstrates how open education resources are actually being used (Schmidt-Jones, 2012). Therefore, we need to extend our focus on OER from resources to open educational practices (OEP), which emphasize the actual use and creation of OER. Possible research questions: What are faculty perceptions and experience of use MOOCs and other types of OER to supplement their teaching? What are the barriers that prevent faculty members to use MOOCs and other types of OER in their teaching practices? What are student perceptions and experience of use MOOCS and other types of OER to supplement their learning? Multiple students and research questions possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h 31 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab koen.lombaerts@vu b.ac.be Digital Competence and Digital learning: University Students in Informal Learning Environment Some empirical researches have been put forward into educational settings especially the K-12 educational systems, still very few research on university students digital competence and their digital learning in informal learning context. This study aims at assessing university students digital competence and exploring their digital learning in informal context,in order to known the influntial factors of students' digital informal learning and the complex relations among these factors. Multiple students and research questions possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h

19 32 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab b.ac.be Gender disparities in education Gender inequality in education has been an issue of both academic and public debate for over 40 years. Since the 1990s, in many Northern countries the underachievement of boys became a matter of concern while in many developing countries in the South girls dropout and lower participation in education in general is the predominant problem. (1) We want to get a clearer, empirically substantiated picture of genderrelated factors at the individual level and within the school context that predict low achievement, retention and drop-out of boys and girls in the transition years from primary to secondary education (many drop out at this level) in several national contexts. Examples of variables: Pupils: background variables, indicators of academic achievement, cognitive abilities, indicators of identity development and gender identity, teacher-pupil interaction, attitudes, gender specific cultures, school well-being, involvement,... Teachers: background variables, school wellbeing, involvement, teaching style, teacher attitudes, expectations and the beliefs,... Parents/guardians: involvement with school, parenting styles, educational/school choices of their child(ren), expectations regarding their child(ren) s academic achievement and future, School officials: school size, school structure, school infrastructure, gender composition (of teacher and pupil population) and context variables such as features of school population. Multiple students and research questions are possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h 33 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab koen.lombaerts@vu b.ac.be Gender role attitudes and academic achievement Research suggests that sex role attitudes (the attitudes regarding the appropriate roles, rights and responsibilities of women and men in society) are an important factor in explaining the academic underachievement. Moreover, research shows that the development of sex role attitudes is influenced by different factors such as the home environment, peers and the school environment. We propose a more in depth study in the development of sex role attitudes over time and how this relates to academic achievement. Questionnaires have already been collected (cfr. Supra) and can be used in analysis. A qualitative or mixed-method approach, however, are not excluded. Multiple students and research questions are possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h

20 34 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab b.ac.be Blended learning in Adult education programs Focus 1: The literature tells us that the learning strategies of students have an impact on their academic performances. So the learning strategies are very important in the learning process of students. Certain characteristics of students (like motivation) possibly have an influence on which learning strategies they use in their studies. This thesis will focus on the characteristics of learners in online and blended learning environments in adult education and the impact of these characteristics on their learning strategies. Focus 2: Learners in adult education are in general a little bit older than students in traditional education and maybe have less experience with the use of computers. In adult education, there is a rise of online and blended learning. So are the adult learners in OBL courses in adult education, with regard to their age and maybe limited experience with the use of computers, ready to do this kind of courses? Do they have the right expectations about this kind (OBL) of courses or do they experience a shock because they had the wrong experiences? Is there a relationship between the characteristics of adult learners (like gender, age, ) and the extent to which they are ready to do an OBL course? Focus 3: Learners in adult education are an important group of students in our society. They are a very diverse group with big differences in characteristics, needs and expectations about education. Some characteristics (like motivation, self-efficacy, ) are very important with regard to their academic performances. This thesis will focus on the relationships between the different characteristics of learners in online and blended learning in adult education. Multiple students and research questions are possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h

21 35 Prof. Dr. Koen Lombaerts Edulab b.ac.be Education within a social media culture - Social media in secondary education During the past decade the use of social media has soared. This increased usage not only needs to be attributed to the interest coming from teenagers or students but also to the appeal that social media have on other age groups. Nowadays years old also represent a significant part of the users (Kaplan & Heanlein, 2009). This means that both students and their teachers can be found on social media, including social network sites such as Facebook. This gives rise/possibilities for research about social media concerning (1) the perceptions, attitudes and usage of social media of teachers and students, (2) the interaction between teachers and students, (3) the relationship between teachers and students, and (4) the interaction of teachers among each other and students among each other. In other words, this study aims to explore the role of social media for secondary education through the study of teachers and students perceptions, usage and interactions of social media. Keeping one the aforementioned research topics in mind, the researcher can opt for one (or a combination) of the following research methods: Virtual ethnography Intensive interviews or focus groups Survey Mixed method Multiple students and research questions are possible. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=71%20- %20researc h 36 Prof. Dr. Katrien Struyven Psychology & Sciences Katrien.Struyven@vu b.ac.be Conceptions of student teachers, novice teachers and experienced teachers about assessment for learning Conceptions of student teachers, novice teachers and experienced teachers about assessment for learning e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=96

22 37 Prof. Dr. Katrien Struyven Psychology & Sciences b.ac.be Student teachers, novice teachers and experienced teachers conceptions and expertise on within-classroom differentiation Student teachers, novice teachers and experienced teachers conceptions and expertise on within-classroom differentiation e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=96 38 Prof. Dr. Nadine Engels Psychology & Sciences ac.be Gender disparities in education Gender disparities in education e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=68

23 39 Prof. Dr. Willem Elias Psychology & Sciences Arts and cultural education Themes related to arts and cultural education. e/edwe/in dex.php?o ption=com _content&t ask=view&i d=66 40 Prof. Dr. Jean Pierre Vanhee Psychology & Sciences ongerenwelzijn.be Integrated youth care 1. For some years, the methodology of the Family Conferences, has been introduced in Flandres. This methodology can be appointed as an application of the so called socialiasation of aid, is known abroad (Australia) under the name of Family Conferences. A doctoral analysis could be a meta research of the knowledge worldwide gathered regarding the results of the usage of the methodology. Likewise Familiy Conferences are being organized in the Netherlands, even more successfully than in Flandres. This could be a second research question. What makes the difference between Flandres and the Netherlands regarding introduction and implementation of the methodology. A third research question would concern the necessary conditions for an improved implementation in Flandres. 2. Signs of safety is as well a foreign (mostly Australian) methodology or rather assisting framework, that pertains on the situation of children who are in one way or another threatened in their development. For some years SoS has been applied in Flandres just like Family Conferences by mandated facilities. These facilities are the Ondersteuningscentrum jeugdzorg and the Vertrouwenscentra Kindermishandeling. Next to a metareview of the results of the usage of this methodology in a few surrounding countries, a localised research into the implementation of this framework forms an constitutes an interesting subject of doctoral research; It is clear that for both Multiple students possible. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=29341

24 of the research assignments a lot of international literature available is, but that research aspects that focus on Flanders, could cause language difficulties for American researchers. Questionnaires could be translated and there are probably a lot of students willing to participate in this research as master thesis. Focusgroups or interviews could than possibly be held in Dutch. Nevertheless additional efforts will be made regarding linguistic synchronization with students if necessary. 41 Prof. Dr. Christophe Vanroelen Sociology [email protected] Work and employment conditions and health Besides purely physical health risks, in most high income countries research attention has grown for the broader (psychosocial) quality of work- and employment conditions (including psychological demands of work, control over the work task and schedule, precarious employment conditions, job insecurity, etc.). Strong relations with workers mental and physical health have been found. Of course, the quality of work and employment take completely other proportions in South and Central America (Benach et al, 2007; Muntaner et al., 2010). Only recently the first high quality data sources on the quality of work and employment became available (a good example is the first Central American Survey on health and working conditions, but similar projects are running in the South American region). The objective of the proposed project(s) is to explore these new surveys, for specific themes related to the fields of occupational health and occupational health psychology. These specific topics could but not exclusively - include: psychosocial working conditions, precarious employment, informal work, work-related health inequalities. Also qualitative field work could be a possibility. Several phd students can be admitted. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=41557

25 42 Prof. Dr. Dimokritos Kavadias Sociology & political science Department Social capital and educational outcomes in Europe and South- America Findings of scholarly literature show that educational inequality tends to persist for ethnic and immigrant minorities. Such students tend to have lower academic achievement and educational attainment in West-Europe and in the United States. To explain this enduring educational inequality, variables on the individual, family, school and neighborhood level are used. One line of research explores different levels of social capital of students and its relationship with academic achievement and other characteristics. In a review article on social capital, Portes defined social capital as the ability of actors to secure benefits by virtue of membership in social networks or other social structures (1998: 6). Modern applications of the concept of social capital in educational science most frequently originate from the work of Bourdieu and Coleman. Political scientists have also developed the concept of social capital. Putnam for example has defined social capital as features of social organizations, such as networks, norms, and trust, that facilitate action and cooperation for mutual benefit (Putnam 1993: 36). He focussed on participation in formal and informal networks and forms of civic engagement including trust in political & governmental associations. Closely connected to the idea of social capital is its level of unequal distribution across different groups (Lin 2002; Field 2008). According to Lin, it is conceivable that social groups ( ) have different access to social capital because of their advantaged or disadvantaged structural positions and social networks (2001: 95) and that in general, the association between particular people and their quantity and quality of social capital is nonrandom (Field, 2008: 366). Research should continue to compare different societies and its unequal level of social capital. Are there elements of social capital that explain academic achievement of students differently in each society or are the effects of social capital common to every society? The research proposal would have to focus on a comparison of the level of social capital (participation in formal and informal networks, forms of civic engagement including trust in political & governmental associations) and its relationship with academic achievement of students in South American and European societies. vub.ac.be/t eam/dimok ritoskavadias b.ac.be/

26 43 44 Prof. Dr. Dimokritos Kavadias Prof. Dr. Dimokritos Kavadias Sociology & political science Department Sociology & political science Department Socio-ethnic segregation and its effects on young peoples social integration: A comparison between the Brussels Capital Region and a South-American Metropolitan Region The political fallout of educational systems: Equal Opportunities Policies and social inequality in Europe and South- America There has been a lot of public attention for segregated neighborhoods and schools. Due to negative stigmatization, middle-class families avoid these neighborhoods and schools. This project aims to investigate how these environments affect those who actually live in these neighborhoods and are educated in segregated schools. Concretely, the relation between the socio-ethnic composition of neighborhoods and schools and the social mobility of young people living in a Capital like Brussels should be compared with the situation in a South American metropolitan region. In order to open up the black box behind these effects we will take on an insider perspective focusing on young peoples attitudes, aspirations and experiences. The research should focus on young adolescents (age 14-20) in order to assess the impact of their neighborhood and school composition on their educational outcome and future aspirations. Methodologically, the research design can include analyses on longitudinal administrative data, a tailored survey design or qualitative fieldwork for both regions. The assumed fairness of a meritocratic society has been the drive behind the expansion of access to education for all. Schools are important institutions to attribute social status in function of scholastic achievements. But schools do not only provide work-related skills. There is also the widespread expectation that schools contribute to social cohesion and democratic citizenship. The current research proposal should look at the impact of the characteristics of educational systems and political systems on the political attitudes of adolescents. We presume that social and educational equality mediates the chains linking educational systems to democratic citizenship attitudes. The research should use a multi-method approach; quantitative data-analysis on comparative datasets (e.g. PISA, CIVED, ICCS) can help to explore the interrelation between educational differences according to social background, as well as insight in the causal mechanisms linking educational and political systems to opinions and attitudes. The quantitative analysis could be complemented with a Qualitative Comparative Analysis or qualitative analysis in order to look for patterns on a restricted number of cases. The analysis should try to compare European with South American countries. vub.ac.be/t eam/dimok ritoskavadias vub.ac.be/t eam/dimok ritoskavadias b.ac.be/ b.ac.be/

27 45 Prof. Dr. Dimokritos Kavadias Sociology & political science Department Primary and secondary effects of social inequality. A comparative research between European and South-American educational systems of school governance In the past decennia, social inequality research has spent a lot of attention on primary and secondary effects of social inequality in education. Primary effects occur when pupils social background affects their level of academic performance, secondary effects influence their academic choices. Jackson and Jonsson (2013) present a comparative study of a number of Western countries on this subject. They investigated France, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, England and the United States. We would like to study primary and secondary effects for a number of South-American countries, using existing comparative data (e.g. TIMSS, PISA, etc.). We are primarily interested in the impact of different educational policies. policies comprise differences in teacher training, financing, forms of school governance, student-staff ratio, selective mechanism between the different levels of education (pre-primary, primary, secondary and tertiary), etc We would also like to investigate how countries with different forms of educational policies yield different degrees of inequalities (e.g. school governance policies compare to each other and to systems with less privatization, regarding effects of inequality). Ref. Jackson, M. & Jonsson, J.O. (2013) Why does inequality of educational opportunity vary across countries? Primary and secondary effects in comparative context, in Jackson, M. (ed.) Determined to Succeed? Performance versus Choice in Attainment, Stanford: University Press, vub.ac.be/t eam/dimok ritoskavadias b.ac.be/

28 46 Prof. dr. Cathy Macharis Technology and business operations of manufacture (Research Centre MOBI) b.ac.be sustainable logistics, electric and hybrid vehicles and sustainable mobility The MOBIlity, Logistics and Automotive Technology Research Centre (MOBI) is an interdisciplinary team that researches on electric and hybrid vehicles, on sustainable logistics and mobility solutions with a close connection to the field. Based on our deep expertise in sustainable logistics, external costs, travel behaviour, electric and hybrid vehicles, life cycle analysis and socio-economic evaluation methods we develop and evaluate smart policies and concepts and enable their implementation. This research project will therefore focus on one of the three main domains within MOBI, namely: sustainable logistics, electric and hybrid vehicles and sustainable mobility. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id= vub.ac.be/?p =sustainablel ogistics&id=4 47 Prof. Dr. Karen Celis Economic and Social political Science & RHEA Center of Expertise Gender, Diversity and Intersectionality [email protected] e Gender & ethnicity in Politics & Policy We welcome research that is concerned with the interrelatedness and intersection of two central discrimination mechanisms, gender and ethnicity. It critically investigates the ethnic dimension of gender politics and policies, and the gender dimension of ethnic minority politics and policies. The overall objective is to establish how and why the interaction between gender and ethnicity affects the democratic quality, inclusiveness and effectiveness of politics and policy and its ability to reach social goals such as equality. As a means to enhance theory building in the study of the interrelation between gender and ethnicity in politics and policy, comparative analyses inquiring how differences between national settings, policy levels or sub-groups can be explained will be undertaken. vub.ac.be/t eam/karen -celis b.ac.be/

29 48 Prof. Dr. Hadewijch Vandenheede Economic and Social Sociology hadewijch.vandenhe Ethnic and/or migrant differences in health and mortality Societies are becoming ever more ethnically diverse, prompting Vertovec to coin the term super-diversity. In countries all over the world, migrants and ethnic-cultural minorities make up an increasingly larger share of the population. A substantive body of literature documents migrant and/or minorities health and mortality, often but not always showing worse health and mortality outcomes among these groups compared to the host population. Mapping out health and mortality differences between migrants and/or minorities and the host population is only the first step; probing into the explanations for differences the second one. While research into the former is abundant, research into the latter is scarce. Deepening our understanding of observed differences is, however, crucial both from a fundamental-research perspective (gaining insight into social and pathophysiological processes at work) and from a public health perspective (developing tailored preventive and curative interventions). Advances in this field can be made by tapping the acculturation process aptly; by taking various intermediary and fundamental mechanisms into account, such as discrimination experiences, religious affiliation, access to and quality of health care; socioeconomic factors, etc.; by crosscountry research either comparing migrant groups with similar migration histories in different countries or comparing migrants in country of destination with non-migrants in country of origin; etc. Students who wish to apply for these vacancies can either choose one of the avenues of research suggested or another avenue of their interest in the field of migrant health research. Useful contributions can be made by quantitative research, qualitative research or a combination of the two. Max. 5 PhD Students e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person_ pub.php?p erson_id=4 3240

30 49 Prof. Dr. Thomas Crispeels Economic and Social Business Technology and Operations ub.ac.be Inter- Organizational Collaboration in Biotechnology: Technology Transfer Ever since the inception of the modern biotechnology industry in 1976, inter-organizational collaborations are at the heart of the industry. Inter-organizational collaborations are formal collaborations between two or more organizations and can be situated between the two extremes of market transactions and acquisitions. They can take on many forms and exist in many functional domains of the firm, ranging from co-marketing agreements over joint R&D contracts to joint ventures (Peng, 2009). This means that we can study a number of interesting collaboration forms, including joint R&D contracts, strategic alliances and inter-organizational networks. But why are interorganizational collaborations important in the biotechnology industry? A high number of discoveries and technologies applied in modern biotechnology are university-born. These discoveries and technologies serve as input resources for the biotechnology industry (Cockburn & Henderson, 1998). At academic institutions, the question arose as to how these academic-born biotechnology applications and tools could be further developed and commercialized. Traditionally, this so called Technology Transfer can be done in two ways. First, academic institutions can license their assets to existing organizations (licensing agreement). Second, academic institutions can license their assets to a new biotechnology firm (a spin-off) (Ahn & Meeks, 2004). This has led to the foundation of a large number of R&D-based small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) that focus on the development of biotechnology applications and technologies coming from academic institutions. Since most of these biotechnology spinoffs do not possess a steady stream of cash flows to fund their internal R&D, they often rely on private investors such as venture capitalists to fund technology and product development. Within this research project, we investigate inter-organizational collaborations between academic institutions and companies during the biotechnology R&D process (focus on technology transfer). Ahn, M. J., & Meeks, M. (2008). Building a conducive environment for life science-based entrepreneurship and industry clusters. Journal of Commercial Biotechnology, 14(1), Cockburn, I., & Henderson, R. (1998). Absorptive capacity, coauthoring behavior, and the organization of research in drug discovery. The Journal of Industrial Economics, 46(2), Crispeeels, T. (2014). NA e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person_ pub.php?p erson_id=2 7084

31 Essays on Inter-Organisational Collaborations in the Biotechnology Industry (Unpublished Doctoral Dissertation). Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium. Peng, M. W. (2009). Global business. M. Acuna (Ed.). Independence, KY: South-Western Cengage Learning. 50 Prof. Dr. Sylvie Gadeyne Economic and Social Sociology Socioeconomic inequalities in health and mortality in middle- and lowincome countries There is accumulating evidence of socio-economic inequalities in health and mortality. The evidence is for a large part based on research in Western and high-income countries. Now it is time to update the research results and to widen the scope in order to enhance insights into the mechanisms of socioeconomic inequalities in health and mortality. The research topic therefore aims at socio-economic inequalities in health and mortality in middle- and low-income countries. A plethora of indicators can be used to measure socio-economic status (education, income, professional class, housing status, etc.). For health and mortality, a wide range of indicators can be used as well, ranging from subjective health to overall-cause and causespecific mortality. Different population groups can be considered: men, women, infants and children, adolescents and young adults, middle-aged, old-aged... Comparisons between inequalities in low-, middle- and high-income countries will be particularly enriching. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person_ pub.php?p erson_id=2 4048

32 51 Prof. dr. Paul De Hert Law and Criminology - Interdisciplinary Studies of Law (Metajuridica). [email protected] Bio banking and the legal issues that accompany it The PhD should examine the regulatory challenges related to data protection connected with the trans-national collection and collaboration raised by the biobanking practices. e/lsts/me mbers/deh ert/ 52 Prof. dr. Paul De Hert Law and Criminology - Interdisciplinary Studies of Law (Metajuridica). [email protected] Data protection as a barrier to fighting transnational crime The PhD will examine the various challenges, that arise out of data protection laws, faced by police enforcement officers when investigating transnational crime. e/lsts/me mbers/deh ert/

33 53 Prof. Dr. Paul De Hert Law and Criminology - Fundamental Rights and Constitutionalis m Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussels [email protected] Global Justice and Human Rights Conceptualising and operationalising human rights and global justice requires a pluralist understanding of the criteria for a just and value-based global order. Taking into account the broad scope of human rights encompassing political, economic, social, group, cultural, democratic and environmental rights, this research will consider the extent to which supranational institutions, States and other international organisations adopt legal frameworks and policies that promote global justice and contribute to a value-based global order. Successful candidates will be working as a PhD researcher for the Fundamental Rights & Constitutionalism Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussels. e/lsts/me mbers/deh ert/ 54 Prof. Dr. Erik Franckx Law and Criminology - International and European Law [email protected] New developments in international adjudication in the area of the Law of the Sea The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea is the first multilateral convention of a universal nature to have an obligatory part on dispute settlement. Recent developments indicate that States apparently only now start to realize the full impact of this novelty. Some of them have refused to outright participate in the agreed procedures, and have invented new procedures to inform courts and tribunals of their positions without having to participate in the procedures as normally required. This project will look into these new expressions of state practice and frame them in contemporary international law of adjudication. e/iere/efra nen.html

34 55 Prof. Dr. Erik Franckx Law and Criminology - International and European Law [email protected] Individuals and the Law of the Sea At sea, states are the major players. On the high seas, for instance, only the flag state will have competence to deal with matters that occur on board the ship. Little by little, however, other actors, like international organizations (e.g. European Union) or individuals (e.g. fishermen, pirates, ) enter the picture. This project aims at clarifying these new developments and assess their standing under contemporary international law e/iere/efra nen.html 56 Prof. Dr. Stefaan SMIS Law and Criminology - International and European Law [email protected] International and regional human rights protection Human rights are rights that all individuals possess on the basis of their human character. Mainly as a result of the second world war a human rights framework developed at the international (United Nations) and regional levels. The major regional human rights systems are the European, the Inter- American and the African human rights systems. Between the various human rights systems there are similarities and differences in approach. I am interested to supervise PhD dissertations with a comparative approach. e/iere/ssm is.html

35 57 Prof. Dr. Stefaan SMIS Law and Criminology - International and European Law [email protected] International criminal Law Since the second world war individuals can be prosecuted on the basis of their individual criminal responsibility for having committed international crimes such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide. With the establishment of the ad hoc International Criminal Tribunals, the mixed courts and the International Criminal Court since the 1990s a whole new branch of international law has seen the day. I am interested in supervising PhD research in all aspects of international criminal law. e/iere/ssm is.html 58 Prof. Dr. Stefaan SMIS Law and Criminology - International and European Law [email protected] Transitional justice Many states which have been confronted with violence and massive human rights violations in the past have difficulties returning to 'normal' life. In order to deal with this dark period some of these countries decide to pass through a transitional phase with the aim to address the problems of the past. This can be done via prosecution of past crimes, truth telling, amnesties, reforming certain state organs etc. On all aspects related to transitional justice I am willing to supervise PhD research. e/iere/ssm is.html

36 59 Prof. Dr. K. Vanderkerken Medicine and Pharmacy - Hematology&Im munology [email protected] Drug resistance in multiple myeloma Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable plasma cell (PC) malignancy affecting approx new patients yearly in the EU. It is characterized by the monoclonal proliferation of PC in the bone marrow (BM) where they interact with the microenvironment (ME), composed of different kinds of stromal cells including osteoblasts, osteoclasts, endothelial cells, mesenchymal stem cells, fibroblasts (including cancer - associated fibroblasts), adipocytes and different types of immune cells (including tissuetumor- associated macrophages). This interaction promotes MM cell survival & proliferation through cell-to- cell adhesion, induces secretion of cytokines & growth factors and also leads to increased angiogenesis, bone destruction and immunosuppression. In addition to this, accumulating data also point to the role of the BM ME in protecting MM cells from chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. Recent preclinical and early clinical studies indicate that new therapies, which target not only MM cells but also their interactions with the host BM ME, may improve outcome of MM patients. Primary or acquired resistance to currently available anti-mm drugs (bortezomib, immunomodulatory agents) involves both intrinsic (intracellular pathways) and extrinsic (microenvironmental factors) mechanisms. Intrinsic mechanisms include upregulation of multidrug resistant transporters which extrude large hydrophobic cytotoxic agents from cancer cells and are ATP binding cassette (ABC) proteins, gene mutations which can be detected by genome/exome sequencing, unbalanced mirna expression, and alteration of intracellular signaling pathways leading to decreased apoptosis. A last intrinsic mechanism is the heterogeneity within the population. The stem cell question in cancer has recently attracted much attention and has been proposed as relevant to understand drug resistance (DR), as a quiescent cell that escapes therapy. Extrinsic mechanisms of DR include soluble as well as cellular components of the ME. Soluble factors, including cytokines and growth factors, as well as adhesion to cellular components (stromal cells and extracellular matrix proteins) can activate numerous signaling cascades (Ras/Raf/MEK/MAPK-, PI3K/Akt-, KJAK/Stat3-, NfkappaB-, Wntpathways) involved in proliferation and survival and are all potential drivers in the development of DR. Recently, exosomes derived from MM stromal cells have been described as 1 PhD student max; work environment: laboratory work with a mouse model e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id= b.ac.be/78-2/

37 important carriers in the cell-cell communication between the ME and the MM cells and have been shown to increase DR. The host lab investigates several mechanisms which are possibly involved in MM DR in a murine model of myeloma: epigenetic changes in the MM cells, immune suppressive cells in the BM ME, exosome signaling etc..the PhD student would be involved in one of these projects. 60 Prof. Dr. Luc Bouwens Medicine & Pharmacy - Biomedical Sciences [email protected] Beta cell regeneration in diabetes Discovery of factors, like growth factors, cytokines, hormones or small molecules, and their combinations, that stimulate the regeneration, growth or survival of insulin-producing and glucose-sensing beta cells in the pancreas. In vitro and in vivo studies of the cellular and molecular mode of action, and translation to pre-clinical models of diabetes. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=20923

38 61 Prof. Dr. D. Pipeleers, Prof. Dr. F. Gorus, Prof. Dr. B. Keymeulen, Prof. Dr. K. Hellemans, Prof. Dr. G. Martens, Prof. Dr. P. In't Veld Medicine and Pharmacy - Diabetes Research Center center@betacellther apy.org Beta Cell Therapy The Diabetes Research Center of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel opens four positions, For its research program Innovation in Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment of Diabetes, supported by the European Commission, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation-US and the Flemish Government. Diabetes is a frequent chronic disease that can clinically appear at each age. When diagnosed under age 40 y, the underlying disease mostly corresponds to the type 1 form that leads to massive loss of insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Patients face a daily burden and a life-long risk for serious acute and chronic complications. Our Center develops and implements methods for early diagnosis, prevention and treatment. They are based on cell biologic insights, take advantage of core facilities (Functional Cytomics, Drug Screening Platform, CMI-Diabetes BioBank, BetaCellBank) and collaborations within an international consortium of research and clinical university departments and of industrial partners ( Biomarkers are selected to costeffectively detect the type 1 disease in an early pre-clinical stage and follow it in biologically defined subpopulations. Beta cell function markers will also be used to identify young adults with high risk for the type 2 form, and to follow the loss in beta cell mass. Subgroups at high risk will be recruited for intervention trials that aim suppression of the disease process (prevention). Those with depleted beta cell mass are considered for beta cell replacement therapy that restores endogenous insulin production through an implant of cells isolated from the pancreas or derived from stem cells (treatment). Preclinical models are used to test therapeutic strategies and translate findings to clinical and industrial applications Potential promotors Beta Cell Biology, Karine Hellemans ([email protected]) Marker Development, Geert Martens ([email protected]) Histopathology, Peter In't Veld ([email protected]) Preclinical Beta Cell Therapy Models, Daniel Pipeleers ([email protected]) Epidemiology, Frans Gorus ([email protected]) We are looking for investigators with a interest in (1) histopathology (2) clinical formation to participate in clinical studies (3) in the cell biology of therapeutic models Applications can be sent to [email protected], or the the adresses above. The application file should contain a motivation letter clearly indicating the area and position of interest, a CV with publication list (if applicable) and a summary of past research. echtransfer.be/success - stories/dia betesresearchcenter/

39 62 Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Jacquet Medicine and Pharmacy Indication for dental CBCT usage The success of endodontic (root canal) treatment reposes on a complete cleaning of the root canal system. Anatomical complications of the root canal system are rather common. The often irregular geometric relation between IAN and the roots of M2 jeopardizes its extractions as well. In both settings these complications, when undetected, can cause treatment failure. Intra oral projection radiography used as a first line detection underestimates these complications. Therefore, it is not optimally appropriate as indicator for the use of more informative CBCT. Three dimensional tomographic imaging such as CBCT with restricted field of view is able to provide the required information yet time and radiation dose needs being considered. As research objective we propose the development of a predictive model based on a limited number of carefully selected cone-beam projection images obtained from a CBCT scanner as indicator for full or discrete CBCT imaging. Aim is augmenting the detection of potential complicated root canal topologies and root IAN relations. Keywords: CBCT, endodontic treatment, diagnosis, extraction, CBCT indication, dose reduction. Institutes and promoters: Prof Dr P. Bottenberg MOND: oral health sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr W. Jacquet MOND: oral health sciences EDWE: Edulab sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr. Ir. E. Nyssen ETRO: Electronics and Informatics engineering science. We offer: interdisciplinary support, access to advanced micro-ct and CBCT scanners. The opportunity to develop new algorithms and methodologies and to evaluate the results in a clinical setting. Requirements of a candidate: Academic requirements: dentist with technical interest, engineer or master in sciences Language: English advanced reading and writing Limited programming skills: Matlab Enthusiasm and creativity: the drive and ability to find solutions, implement and experiment. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=40515 w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=sopa

40 63 Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Jacquet Medicine and Pharmacy Low dose X-ray discrete 3D root canal image reconstruction A successful endodontic (root canal) treatment requires a complete cleaning of the root canal system. Anatomical complications of the root canal system are rather common. These complications, when undetected, can cause treatment failure. Intra oral projection radiography has been the sole imaging technique accessible for dentists and endodontists. Yet, projection radiography underestimates anatomical complications. Three dimensional tomographic imaging such as CBCT with restricted field of view is able to provide the required information. But, when using CBCT scanners radiation dose needs being considered. The development of an accessible 3D representation of root canal anatomy that only requires a low radiation dose would be desirable. In this project we will attempt to 1. Adapt and apply the discrete 3D image reconstruction technique DART to cope with a limited number of areas with a homogeneous x-ray opacity (enamel, and dentine) next to areas with graded X-ray absorption properties (pulp, IAN and surrounding sponges bone structure). DART allows reconstructions based on a limited number of X-ray images obtained through a CBCT scanner and thus for a low radiation dose. Recent theoretic adaptations of DART allow for the reconstruction of homogeneous regions with one opacity in combination with regions with graded areas. 2. Develop dental model for geometric tomography. Keywords: CBCT, endodontic treatment, diagnosis, 3D imaging, discrete tomography, geometric tomography, CBCT indication, dose reduction. Institutes and promoters: Prof Dr P. Bottenberg MOND: oral health sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr W. Jacquet MOND: oral health sciences EDWE: Edulab sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr. Ir. E. Nyssen ETRO: Electronics and Informatics engineering science. We offer: interdisciplinary support, access to advanced micro-ct and CBCT scanners. The opportunity to develop new algorithms and methodologies and to evaluate the results in a clinical setting. Requirements of a candidate: Academic requirements: engineer or master in sciences Language: English advanced reading and writing Programming skills: C or Matlab Enthusiasm and creativity: the drive and ability to find solutions, implement and experiment. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=40515 w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=sopa

41 64 Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Jacquet Medicine and Pharmacy Dynamic CBCT 4D imaging of the TMJ for planning and diagnosis Orthognathic surgery, the surgical correction of abnormalities of the mandible, maxilla, or both, and orthodontic treatment have possible adverse long term effects on the functionality of the Tempo Mandibular Joints (TMJ). Geometry related surgical risk factors are mechanical stress compression and articular disk-condyle mal-relationships. Closeness of the condyle and the fossa mandibularis can be an indication of possible elevated pressure resulting in compression. CBCT imaging and an additional reduced number of projection images e.g. lateral and frontal produced at different stages of opening of the mount may reveal closeness during articulation. Optimally these images are made with the same CBCT equipment. Similarly the influence of the dental occlusion or possible malocclusion on the TMJ can be studied. An additional very small number of projection images of a patient exerting a series of prescribed biting forces can reveal abnormal closeness and pressure points during the articulation (4D-space and time). The basis for both applications is the treatment of the bony structures as a complex of piecewise rigid objects and the possibility once reconstructed to determine their relative positions with a limited number of projection images. Keywords: CBCT, orthodontic treatment, TMJ, diagnosis, 3D imaging. Institutes and promoters: Prof Dr. B. Vande Vannet, MOND: oral health sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr W. Jacquet MOND: oral health sciences EDWE: Edulab sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr. Ir. E. Nyssen ETRO: Electronics and Informatics engineering science. We offer: interdisciplinary support, access to advanced micro-ct and CBCT scanners. The opportunity to develop new algorithms and methodologies and to evaluate the results in a clinical setting. Requirements of a candidate: Academic requirements: engineer or master in sciences Language: English advanced reading and writing Programming skills: C or Matlab Enthusiasm and creativity: the drive and ability to find solutions, implement and experiment. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=40515 w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=sopa

42 65 Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Jacquet Medicine and Pharmacy Optimal visualization of digital dental images based on prior knowledge A successful dental diagnosis frequently uses radiographic images. Through fully digital imaging systems digital images are of growing importance to the dental diagnostic process. Unlike analogue representation forms such as film the digital nature makes it possible to optimize the representation towards specific diagnostic needs. One step is the calibration of the representing medium towards the human visual system as to obtain a maximum of discriminating ability. A great body of research went into the development of visual representation through calibrated monitors and environmental aspects such as lighting. Yet, for specific diagnostic purposes it is possible that the structures of interest are situated in specific gray-value regions and specific detectable areas of the image. An optimization of the representation towards the visualization of these areas can be performed. In dentistry specific a priori knowledge about tooth structure and specific diagnostic needs can lead us towards better representations. Keywords: Calibration, X-ray imaging, Visualization, diagnosis, dental, digital imaging. Institutes and promoters: Prof Dr P. Bottenberg MOND: oral health sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr W. Jacquet MOND: oral health sciences EDWE: Edulab sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr. Ir. E. Nyssen ETRO: Electronics and Informatics engineering science. We offer: interdisciplinary support, access to advanced micro-ct and CBCT scanners. The opportunity to develop new algorithms and methodologies and to evaluate the results in a clinical setting. Requirements of a candidate: Academic requirements: dentist with technical interest, engineer or master in sciences Language: English advanced reading and writing Limited programming skills: Matlab Enthusiasm and creativity: the drive and ability to find solutions, implement and experiment. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=40515 w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=sopa

43 66 Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Jacquet Medicine and Pharmacy Optimization of dental diagnostics through matching of screen calibration and physical properties of the practitioner A successful dental diagnosis most often uses radiographic images stored digitally. Through fully digital imaging systems digital images are of growing importance to the dental diagnostic process. Unlike analogue representation forms such as film the digital nature makes it possible to optimize the representation towards specific diagnostic needs. One step is the calibration of the representing medium towards the human visual system as to obtain a maximum of discriminating ability. A great body of research went into the development of visual representation through calibrated monitors and environmental aspects such as lighting. Yet, on the one hand not all practitioners are equal and on the other hand a lot of transformation tools such as zoom, contrast, brightness, and filtering are available. We propose to study the way practitioners make use of zoom, contrast, brightness, and filtering in combination with how successful they diagnose. We will also investigate the influences of differences between practitioners such as and their capacity to make distinctions between gray values on diagnosis and how to cope with those differences. Both aspect have to result into personalized viewing and image scanning strategies aligning physical properties of the practitioner and available imaging tools. Keywords: Calibration, Visualization, X-ray imaging, diagnosis, dental, digital imaging, protocol. Institutes and promoters: Prof Dr P. Bottenberg MOND: oral health sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr W. Jacquet MOND: oral health sciences EDWE: Edulab sciences Medicine and Pharmacy Prof Dr. Ir. E. Nyssen ETRO: Electronics and Informatics engineering science. We offer: interdisciplinary support, access to advanced micro-ct and CBCT scanners. The opportunity to develop new algorithms and methodologies and to evaluate the results in a clinical setting. Requirements of a candidate: Academic requirements: dentist with technical interest, engineer or master in sciences Language: English advanced reading and writing Limited programming skills: Matlab Enthusiasm and creativity: the drive and ability to find solutions, implement and experiment. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=40515 w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=sopa

44 67 Prof. Dr. Marc Theeboom Physical Education and Physiotherapy - Sport Policy and Management marc.theeboom@vu b.a.be Sport and development Analysing the potential role of sport as a means of personal and social development of individuals with an emphasis on socially disadvantaged target groups (e.g., youth at risk, detainees, ethnic minorities, people in poverty, asylum seekers,...). Looking at critical success factors (or necessary and sufficient conditions) as well determining / measuring possible outcomes. Several PhD's are possible (target groups dependant). Promoter is affiliated to two faculties and working in the domains of sport/movement and educational sciences. PhD's will have to relate to these areas. e/sbma/re searchprojects w. vub.ac.be/sb MA/ 68 Prof. Dr. Romain Meeusen Physical Education and Physiotherapy - Human Physiology [email protected]. be Exercise and the brain in health and disease Besides the positive effects of exercise on the cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems, there is growing interest in the effect of exercise on the central nervous system, and it seems unarguable that physical activity and nutrition have healthenhancing effects on the brain. It is therefore necessary that future research interventions should also focus on brain activity during exercise. GENERAL PURPOSES Investigate nutritional, exercise and environmental interventions on brain function (cognition, neuroplasticity, and morphology) in healthy and diseased (i.e. diabetic, mild cognitive impairment MCI-) individuals. METHODS To achieve our research goals, different experiments involving nutritional, exercise and environmental interventions in health and diseased subjects will be conducted in which the main techniques to be used will be: Analysis of brain activity during and after exercise with the use of EEG recordings and electrophysiological analysis: continuous EEG data will be derived from 32 active Ag/AgCl electrodes attached on the subjects head (Acticap, Brain Products, Munich, Germany) Brain imaging technique sloreta (Low Resolution Eletromagnetic Tomography) Cognitive performance evaluation (i.e. Stroop task, Operation Span, and Psychomotor Vigilance task) Environmental chamber manipulation Physical performance analysis Serum Neurotrophyns analysis (i.e. BDNF, IGF-1) Biochemical and molecular analysis (i.e. hippocampal neurogenesis; hormonal and substrate serum students should have training in one or more of the following domains : exercise physiology, sport science, rehabilitation science, biomedical research e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/team.ph p?team_co de=mfys

45 concentrations) 69 Prof. Dr. Kristine De Martelaer Physical Education and Physiotherapy - Movement and Sports Training (BETR) [email protected] Swimming / Water satey: Motor skill assessment battery for children A new swimming or water safety motor skill test battery is tested on validity and reliability. Max 2 PhD students Testing in swimming pools with several groups (school swimming, sports club, private lessons,...) taking into account gender and age differences in motor skills e/profiel/p rof-drkristinemartelaer w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=betr

46 70 Prof. Dr. Kristine De Martelaer Physical Education and Physiotherapy - Movement and Sports Training (BETR) [email protected] Ethical dilemmas in PE and youth sport Based on qualitative data (interviews, observation and focus group interviews) the most common ethical dilemmas in Physical Education and youth sport will be described. With this information, cases will be used to train PE teachers and coaches to help them how to deal with critical situations. The PETE and coaches program will be evaluated on its effectiveness. 1 PhD Data gathering in European / international Schools and sport clubs e/profiel/p rof-drkristinemartelaer w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=betr 71 Prof. Dr. Kristine De Martelaer Physical Education and Physiotherapy - Movement and Sports Training (BETR) [email protected] Interdisciplinary teaching between Physical Education and Sciences Based on a proposal of different combined lessons, developed to make the link between PE and Sciences, the effect on the motivation and learning outcomes of the pupils will be measured. The second focus is a process evaluation among staff members at schools where the PE-Sciences approach is implemented. 1 PhD student Implement and evaluate the interdisciplinary PE-Sciences program at international / European schools in the region of Brussel. e/profiel/p rof-drkristinemartelaer w. vub.ac.be/inf ovoor/onder zoekers/rese arch/team.p hp?team_co de=betr

47 72 Prof. Dr. Kenny De Commer Science and Bioengineering Mathematics vub.ac.be Dynamical quantum groupoids The student would investigate particular examples of quantum groupoids in the operator algebraic framework. In particular, the attention would be focused on finding an operator algebraic description of the dynamical quantum SU(1,1) group. Maximum 1 PhD student. As prerequisites, the student should be familiar with the theory of operator algebras, and preferably also should have a passing knowledge of quantum groups/hopf algebras. epages.vub.ac.be/~kd ecomme/ 73 Prof. Dr. Philippe Claeys Science and Bioengineering Analytical-, Environmentaland Geo- Chemistry [email protected] Urban Water Management A large-scale comparative assessment of the potential for Integrated Urban Water Management. The unprecedented pace of urbanization around the world accentuates the strong interrelations and dependencies between the cities and their environment. Integrated urban water management (IUWM) is a recent urban planning strategy aiming at minimizing the waterrelated risks in cities (flooding, droughts) and, at the same time, reducing the impacts of urbanization on the water resources (pollution, erosion, ). While the general principles of IUWM are globally accepted and consolidated, its application remains an open scientific question. The variety of local conditions and the complexity of the interactions between human settlements and the water cycle make extremely difficult to understand IUWM potential and effectiveness without in-depth local studies. The proposed PhD is about the comparison of IUWM potentials over a set of different geographic, climatic and urban contexts. The candidate will analyze several case studies worldwide, applying global classification methods to define standard hydrologic and urban characteristics, and search for possible generalizations of IUWM strategies. The set of methods, parameters and indicators that will emerge from this research will be of high relevance both for supporting intelligent urban planning and for a sustainable, long-term management of water resources. Within the Urban Environmental Geosciences group of the research unit : Analytical, Environmental and Geo-Chemistry, which is composed of ~ 45 researchers, more info : o/homeueg.html Looking for 1 PhD student, with background in hydrology, hydraulics, earth science. ub.ac.be/~ dglg/web/ Claeys/Clae ys.htm

48 74 75 Prof. Dr. Philippe Claeys & Prof. Dr. Koen Stein Prof. Dr. Philippe Claeys & Prof. Dr. Seann McKibbin Science and Bioengineering Earth System Sciences - AMGC Science and Bioengineering Analytical- Environmental- & Geo-Chemistry [email protected] [email protected] Mapping the diagenesis of dinosaur bone Melting in rocky mantles: Small planetary bodies and analogues on Earth Fossil bone has great preservation potential, depending on the circumstances of burial. Recently, peptides and remnants of DNA have been demonstrated in 66Ma old dinosaur bones, and Fe has been proposed as a key player in the preservation process. The proposed project aims to better understand the meaning of iron (among others) in this process. Fossils with different preservation types (e.g. pyritized, oxidized) and from a variety of sites and ages will be studied with tools such as µxrf, edx and polarized light microscopy to answer some key questions regarding the preservation of bone through deep time. Melting of the Earth's mantle is one of the fundamental processes involved in planetary-scale differentiation and is critical in producing basaltic magma, which crystallises to form the most primitive type of crust. This process also occurred in small proto-planetary bodies during the first 10 million years of Solar System evolution, with a range of crustal compositions now recognised in meteorites from Antarctica, Africa and elsewhere. Though operating by generally similar mechanisms, few studies have compared small planetary melting environments with terrestrial analogues, as well as the types of magmas and mantle residues which each produce. Some aspects should be similar, being dictated by basic phase equilibria and general rules of element partitioning, while the effect of pressure and mantle convection in the Earth produces textures and compositions which are unique to this setting. We are looking for suitable, highly motivated candidates with Master degree or equivalent basic scientific training in the fields of geology, biology, paleontology, archaeology, chemistry or similar to start a PhD research program at the Earth System Science group at the Free University of Brussels (VUB). Experience with modern analytical equipment is a plus, but not a must. The candidate must have an interest in bone microstructure, chemistry and bone diagenesis, and must be able to work independently. For more info: [email protected] or [email protected]. The student will study new and unique meteorites which reflect melting processes, as well terrestrial mafic and ultramafic rocks from suitable sites. Opportunities exist for remote fieldwork and visiting state of the art laboratories. b/claeys/claeys.htm ub.ac.be/~ dglg/web/ Claeys/Clae ys.htm ub.ac.be/~ dglg/web/ Claeys/Clae ys.htm

49 76 Prof. Dr. Olga De Troyer Science and Bioengineering Computer Science Weaving Pedagogical Aspects into Serious Games A growing body of literature emphasizes the importance of applying established instructional strategies and pedagogical theories in serious games (digital games that have a main purpose that is different from entertainment). However, little research has been done on how to accomplish this in an effective way. This will be the topic of the PhD work. olga-detroyer 77 Prof. Dr. Olga De Troyer Science and Bioengineering Computer Science Olga.DeTroyer@vub. ac.be Game analytics for Serious Games Serious games are (digital) games that have a main purpose that is different from entertainment. Some serious games are based on simulations of real life situations. Good simulations are close to real behavior. This is an advantage for the learning process but the disadvantage is that it may become hard to provide feedback to learners why they were (un) successful in the game. The purpose of the PhD is to investigate whether and how game analytics can be used to help providing more explanatory feedback. olga-detroyer

50 78 Prof. Dr. Heidi Ottevaere Engineering - Applied Physics and Photonics, Brussels Photonics Team Heidi.Ottevaere@vu b.ac.be Photonics for a brighter, lighter and healthier world! At the beginning of the 21st century our society is said to be at the dawn of a new era where photonics the science-andtechnology that innovates with the unique properties of light is revolutionizing our world in a similar way as electronics did the last 50 years. Photonics takes advantage of the unique properties of light to probe, sense, transmit, process, display and store information, and to accomplish a multitude of original functionalities, which cannot be achieved in other ways. The best-known examples of successful innovation with light are found in the ICT sector and have already revolutionized our present-day lives. Indeed, today single-mode optical fibers, photonic integrated circuits, and optical amplifiers form the backbone of our broadband world-wide internet. Photonic technologies also support DVD and Blu-Ray optical data storage, while highly advanced optical light engines are at the heart of 3D high-definition cinema projectors and ultra-high definition O-LED TVs and displays. In the last decennium photonics also triggered a clean-tech innovation wave in energy production, interior lighting, and advanced manufacturing empowered respectively by high-efficiency photovoltaic solar cells, high-brightness light emitting diodes, and compact ultra-high-power lasers. By 2010 photonics had sufficiently matured to be recognized as a scientific and technological discipline in its own right. As a result the European Commission (EC) distinguished photonics as one of the 6 strategic key enabling technologies (KETs) in her Horizon 2020 program, together with advanced materials, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, micro- and nanoelectronics, and nanotechnologies. The combination of photonics with one or more KETs the so-called cross-ket photonics paradigm has already been taken up by early adopters. As a result this radically new approach is already starting to deliver its first convincing proof-of-concept demonstrators, such as bio-photonic labs-on-a-chip for pointof-care medical diagnosis, photonic fiber sensors for structural health monitoring of composite materials, photonic integrated chips for optical coherence tomography of human tissue, and free-form micro-lens ocular implants to improve the vision of macular degeneration patients. A PhD student at the Brussels Photonics Team will work on one of these novel applications and will focus on the design, fabrication and characterization of Profile: The candidate possesses a Master s degree in Photonics, Applied Physics or Electronics Engineering or a Master s degree in Physics. The candidate should be able to carry out his/her research activities in an independent manner The candidate has excellent communication skills and can interact on a daily basis and in a professional manner with the project team members The candidate is fluent in English. Candidates with strong interest in multidisciplinary problems and with both theoretical and experimental skills will be favored. Candidates for this PhD should supply: A CV/resume An official transcript of records One or two reference letters Selection of the candidates will follow a two-step procedure: Evaluation of the supplied documents Selection or not for an interview based on the evaluation of the documents Additional information about the admission requirements for a PhD at Vrije Universiteit Brussel can be found at e/en/phd /admission-requirements Additional information on the Brussels Photonics Team at VUB can be found at w.bphot.org/u sers/b- Phot/Staff/ manageme nt/heidi- Ottevaere

51 dedicated micro-photonic components and systems with enhanced functionalities. 79 Prof. Dr. Ann Dooms Engineering - Electronics and Informatics [email protected]. be Digital Painting Analysis Thanks to advances in digital photography, museums have on a large scale started to digitize their collections, mainly for conservation purposes. These recordings are priceless: if a painting was damaged or painted over, these would in some cases be the only remaining sources of information. The most important aspect is the non-invasive nature of digital recording techniques and the variety of modalities such as multi/hyperspectral scans, X-ray radiography, UV fluorescence, IR reflectography etc. The aim of the thesis is to assist art historians and conservators through finding answers to their problems through image processing. w.etro.vub. ac.be

52 80 Prof. Dr. Jan Lemeire Engineering - Electronics and Informatics [email protected]. be Performance analysis of GPU computing GPUs (graphics cards) provide us with an enormous potential of processing power which can be used beyond graphics: for computational-intensive general purpose programs. An acceleration of 100 times is within reach. However, deep understanding of the performance bottlenecks and overheads is required. We are working on a unique methodology that provides a detailed qualitative and quantitative understanding of GPU computing which is applicable for a wide range of applications which we develop in close collaboration with several industrial partners. w.etro.vub. ac.be w. etro.vub.ac.b e/research /IRIS/ 81 Prof. Dr. Adrian Munteanu Engineering - Electronics and Informatics Department [email protected]. ac.be 3D Graphics Compression Efficient 3D data representation methodologies are needed in order to cope with the massive amounts of point cloud data generated in the 3D scanning process. This PhD opening aims at the design of novel multiresolution representation system for 3D graphics, allowing for highly efficient compression, real-time transmission and rendering of very high resolution 3D objects. The research aspects cover an entire palette of domains, going from mesh generation from point cloud data, scalable mesh geometry compression, depth estimation, texture compression and re-colorization of the 3D content. Besides a scientific challenge, the position provides a great opportunity to work closely together with experienced researchers in the fields of multimedia compression and computer vision. Prerequisites & other requirements You are an electrical engineer or a computer scientist attracted by multimedia processing and have knowledge/experience in the area of 3D graphics. You have good programming skills (C/C++) with a proven experience in software development. You have a good background in mathematics and digital signal processing. You have good oral and written communication skills. Fluency in English is a must, given the international character of the department. Interested? Send your application to: Adrian Munteanu [email protected] Web: w.etro.vub. ac.be

53 82 83 Prof. Dr. Adrian Munteanu Prof. Dr. Nikos Deligiannis Engineering - Electronics and Informatics Department Engineering - Electronics and Informatics Department [email protected]. ac.be [email protected] c.be Free Viewpoint Video in Multicamera Systems Infrastructure-less low-power networking for the Internet-of-Things Future TV screens will offer new experiences to viewers: new hardware will enable higher dynamic range, higher frame-rates and higher resolutions than current standards. Future 3D video will evolve beyond the stereoscopic format towards autostereoscopic displays which will no longer require users to wear special glasses. Free-viewpoint video (FVV) will allow users to interactively change their viewpoint when visualizing the scene on a 2D or stereoscopic 3D display. This PhD research topic focuses on Free Viewpoint Video (FVV), i.e. at generating arbitrary viewpoints of a 3D scene based on video and depth information acquired using various sensors located at different spatial positions. Such sensors include video cameras (low- and high-resolution) and time of flight depth sensors. This PhD research topic will aim at designing fundamentally novel approaches for generating high quality synthesized views in such multimodal multicamera systems. The goal is to design and implement the data processing algorithms required in order to capture, process and transmit data in an end-to-end FVV system. The recent thrust towards machine-to-machine (M2M) communications and the integration of wireless low-power devices with the generic internet infrastructure will result in 50 billion things connected on the web by year Dataintensive low-power applications, such as visual sensor networks, mobile robots and drones, body area networks and wireless capsule endoscopy, require high bandwidth and energy efficiency to transmit large amounts of sensory data (images, video, acceleration and position data, etc.) with low latency and the smallest possible impact on each sensor s battery resources. Furthermore, spontaneous network reconfiguration when nodes join or leave the network is a must. These requirements call for the development of infrastructure-less, peer-to-peer, communication protocols at the Medium Access Control layer. This PhD opening will investigate novel approaches to improve multichannel medium access control protocols for wireless low-power devices, with emphasis on: (i) avoiding the dependence on a coordination channel and coordinator node; (ii) providing a decentralized approach for time synchronization in the network; and (iii) allowing dynamic scheduling of resources. Several academic Prerequisites & other requirements You are an electrical engineer or a computer scientist attracted by multimedia processing. You have good programming skills (C/C++) with a proven experience in software development. You have a good background in mathematics and digital signal processing. You have good oral and written communication skills. Fluency in English is a must, given the international character of the department. w.etro.vub. ac.be w.etro.vub. ac.be

54 84 Prof. Dr. Nikos Deligiannis Engineering - Electronics and Informatics Department [email protected] c.be Sensing and Analysis of Big Heterogeneous Data papers will be prepared and submitted for publication to toptier journals and conferences, e.g., IEEE Transactions on Wireless Communications, ACM Transactions on Sensor Networks, or similar. Besides a scientific challenge, the position provides a great opportunity to work with experienced researchers in the fields of multi-terminal communications and low-power networking as well as collaborate with an international network of academic and industrial partners. Candidates should have received, or expect to receive their first degree in Computer Science or Electrical/ Electronic Engineering, or similar, or an equivalent MSc degree. They should also have strong programming skills in structured and script-based programming (e.g., C/C++ and Python, Matlab). Knowledge of wireless sensor networks and low-power networking is desirable but not necessary. Candidates should have an autonomous and proactive working style, good communication skills and the ability to work in a team. We nowadays experience the era of data deluge: massive amounts of information are constantly harvested from various multimodal sources in diverse domains ranging from biomedicine and technology to commerce and telecommunications. International players such as Google, YouTube, and Yahoo!, collect loads of data in the order of exabytes and social media (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) have penetrated in our lives beyond anyone s imagination. This data deluge is manifested is several ways: every minute more than 100 hours video are uploaded onto Youtube; more than 100,000 tweets are sent to Twitter; and Google experiences 2 million search requests. It is therefore important to be able to extract important knowledge from heterogeneous data coming from diverse modalities (images, video, sound, text). This PhD opening will investigate novel approaches to address problems in high-dimensional and heterogeneous data acquisition, analysis and processing. Popular problems such as sparse data recovery, matrix completion, and robust principle component analysis will be studied from an innovative and structural point of view. In addition, particular emphasis will be put on hot application domains such as financial, multisensory, and medical data processing as well as video content recommendation systems (the Netflix problem). Several w.etro.vub. ac.be

55 85 Prof. Dr. Johan Stiens Engineering - Electronics and Informatics [email protected]. be Non-thermal bioelectromagneti cs in the GHz range: Study of biophysical interaction mechanisms academic papers will be prepared and submitted for publication to top-tier journals and conferences, e.g., IEEE Transactions on Information Theory, IEEE Transactions on Signal Processing, or similar. Besides a scientific challenge, the position provides a great opportunity to work with experienced researchers in the fields of massive data analysis and communications as well as collaborate with an international network of academic and industrial partners. Candidates should have received, or expect to receive their first degree in Computer Science or Electrical/ Electronic Engineering, or similar, or an equivalent MSc degree. They should also have strong mathematical skills and well as strong programming skills in structured and script-based programming (e.g., C/C++ and Python, Matlab). Knowledge of or strong willingness to learn fast the fundamentals of signal processing, optimization theory and information theory is desirable. Candidates should have an autonomous and proactive working style, good communication skills and the ability to work in a team. Electromagnetic waves are ubiquitous and there are more and more experimental evidences that even non-thermal intensities show an effect on living organisms, which is quite dependent on the exposome, meaning the sum of all experimental conditions. When thinking a traditional biological framework, one is confronted with some fundamental issue is that one cannot trace a specific receptor for these electromagnetic waves. Hence there is a need for a paradigm shift: there is a need to look to biological components from a more fundamental point of view, a spatial distribution of charges, dipoles, hydrophobic, hydrophillic sub-units, VanderWaals forces, hydrogen bonding based network,... The goal of this PhD theme is to confirm biophysical effects in a neatly controlled measurement environment and to start to build up fundamental electromagnetic based interactions mechanisms with biomolecules. This is a very interdisciplinary research topic, hence the topic is open for several students each of them looking to other aspects of this very intriguing topic, opening the doors to novel potential therapeutic modalities. This work will be in collaboration with biologists, engineers, molecular dynamics specialists. w.etro.vub. ac.be

56 86 Prof. Dr. Johan Stiens Engineering - Electronics and Informatics Department [email protected]. be Electromagnetic sensing with multi- GHz waves Electromagnetic sensors operating in the GHz-THz range provide game-changing solutions for industry and life-sciences. In order to bring these sensors to industrial applications, there is plenty of R&D opportunities to transform the intriguing and unique EM wave-matter interactions into practical output parameters of the sensor: PhDs can be defined at various levels: design and testing of EM sensors featuring specific figures of merit (spectral sweep, spectral purity, speed, SNR, dynamic range,..), integration aspects of a sensor into an industrial measurement environment, studies related to the translation of measured S-parameters into parameters of interest for an end user (e.g. concentrations, temperature, freezing or humidity level, denaturation state of a proteins,...). In the context of life-sciences, we focus on dedicated bioanalytical instruments for measuring (bio)chemical interactions, e.g. antigen-antibody, PCR reactions, protein crystallization,...). Various topics can be defined: - sensor designs and testing - numerical topics related to inverse problem solving - very application specific R&D topics w.etro.vub. ac.be 87 Prof. Dr. Johan Stiens Engineering - Electronics and Informatics Department [email protected]. be Graphene based devices operating in the GHz-THz range Graphene, a 340 pm thin carbon honeycomb structure, features amazing properties in a multitude of scientific domains. In this PhD we focus on the exploitation of graphene in the GHz-THz range for the development of modulators. The PhD involves simulation work, design and experimental testing. max 1 PhD student w.etro.vub. ac.be

57 88 Prof. Dr. Kris Steenhaut Engineering - Electronics and Informatics Department [email protected]. ac.be Smart Grid, Wireless Sensor and Actuator Networks, Smart Buildings New developments in Wireless Sensor and Actuator Networks open a new range of applications going from Intelligent monitoring of buildings for energy efficiency to the control of electricity and water grids. The research group has expertise on the development of Internet of Things applications for smart grid, environmental monitoring and control and building automation. Modern smartphones are equipped with several sensors and therefore can be considered as sensor motes. The group investigates on the integration of the Internet of Things with smartphone based networks for the development of crowd based sensing applications. w.etro.vub.ac.be/research/iris/smartnets/ The group develops real world test beds consisting of various IP/Web sensor motes (temperature, humidity, light, noise, irradiation, vibration) and actuators for control (lighting, solar energy systems, wind energy systems, automatic water consumption/quality measurement collection, smart electricity grid). The ETRO-IRIS- SMARTNETS group has thorough experience in the computer networking domain. It complements IRIS' activity on multidimensional signal processing with expertise on telecommunication and networking technologies. The group has three main research tracks: Internet of Things, Embedded System Design for wireless sensor/actuators and Optical Networks. w.etro.vub.ac.be/re SEARCH/IRIS/SmartNets/ w.etro.vub. ac.be

58 89 90 Prof. Dr. Hichem Sahli Prof. Dr. Hichem Sahli Engineering Electronics & Informatics Engineering Electronics & Infrmatics Adaptive Segmentation of Particles and Cells for Fluorescent Microscope Imaging Partial differential approaches for Hyperspectral unmixing & Super- Resolution Analysis of biomolecules in cells essentially relies on fluorescence microscopy. In combination with fully automatic image analysis it allows for insights into biological processes on the sub-cellular level and thus provides valuable information for systems biology studies. In this research work we are targeting new techniques for automatic segmentation of cell areas and sub-celluar localisation. The candidate will develop new approaches for automatic detection, tracking and analysis of subcellular structures in fluorescence microscopy image sequences to address biological research needs. The candidate will develop computer vision techniques such as level sets and tracking by detection approaches to segment the cell images. The candidate should have a good honours degree in mathematics, computer sciences or engineering with bacckground in image analysis, and a strong desire to develop his/her research career in image processing and analysis particularly for biological and biomedical applications. Previous research experience in medical imaging or a postgraduate degree in image processing will be an advantage but not essential. A successful candidate must have a strong interest in multi-disciplinary researches. Hyperspectral imaging sensors enable high-spectral-resolution remote sensing, such as the accurate mapping of different types of vegetation, minerals as well as medical applications. These sensors collect spectrograms as sets of data cubes, each of which represents a spectral band radiance. This PhD consider two open research issues using hyper-spectral data, namely, unmixing and super resolution. This work will be in collaboration with IMEC hyper-spectral sensor development. Qualifications: A background in two or more of the following are required: image processing, deep learning networks, machine learning, applied mathematics, statistics, and highperformance computing. Proficiency in one or more programming/scripting languages (e.g. MATLAB, C/C++). Fluency and excellent oral and written communication skills in English. The PhD-research will be supervised by members of the ETRO department in collaboration with the VUB Research Group Stuctural Biology Brussels (SBB). Also in collaboration with the École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne within the frameowrk of a relevant ongoing project "Microfluidic cellular microarray platform to study on-orbit dynamic systems biology" financed by Belspo (Belgium) and ESA. w.etro.vub. ac.be w.etro.vub. ac.be w. etro.vub.ac.b e/research /IRIS/ w. etro.vub.ac.b e/research /IRIS/

59 91 92 Prof. Dr. Joeri Van Mierlo Prof. Dr. Joeri Van Mierlo Engineering - Electro- and Energytechnics Engineering - Electro- and Energytechnics joeri.van.mierlo@vu b.ac.be Joeri.Van.Mierlo@vu b.ac.be Optimal Design and Control of a Switched Reluctance Motor for Electric Vehicles Applications Modeling and Control of a Dynamic Wireless Power Transfer for Battery Electric Vehicles Applications Recently, Switched Reluctance Motor (SRM) is gaining interest as a candidate of drivetrain for automotive applications, because of its simple and rugged construction and high torque capability. Nevertheless, the SRM is plagued with (acoustic) noise and high torque ripple, which might be compensated with a more complex and expensive control system. In this PhD topic, a comparative study of different electric motors and control strategies will be provided in detail. Then, in this PhD research, the design of the SRM will be optimized to improve the motor performance. This motor will be designed and investigated by using Matlab/Simulink. This PhD will also investigate the cooling system of the SRMs. In addition, this PhD will optimize the motor control strategy in order to reduce the torque and current ripples. Finally, in the framework of this PhD, the drive system will be validated experimentally. In this PhD, a comparative evaluation of those battery chargers will be provided in detail. Then, the dynamic wireless power transfer (DWPT) will be designed and described in detail. A complete model of the EV powertrain including a dynamic WPT battery charger will be simulated by using Matlab program. This PhD will provide optimal design and control for the proposed DWPT battery charger. In addition, the thermal design as well as magnetic will be analyzed in detail in this PhD study. The proposed system will be verified by using standard driving cycles such as NEDC, FTP75, etc.. Furthermore, in the framework of this PhD, a prototype of 50 kw of DWPT battery charger will be designed and built in our laboratory. Finally, a comparative study of the simulation and experimental results will be presented. PhD Requirements The successful applicant should have a master degree or equivalent from an academic institution in Electrical Engineering. The applicant must have good communication skills in English. The applicant should have ability to work independently, to carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large teamwork. At least two recommendation letters should be provided. Preferred skill requirements include knowledge of hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles, power electronics, storage energy systems, control strategies and Matlab / Simulink. Max. number of PhD students: 1 PhD Requirements: The successful applicant should have a master degree or equivalent from an academic institution in Electrical Engineering. The applicant must have good communication skills in English. The applicant should have ability to work independently, to carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large teamwork. At least two recommendation letters should be provided. Preferred skill requirements include knowledge of hybrid i.vub.ac.be / i.vub.ac.be /

60 electric vehicles and electric vehicles, power electronics, storage energy systems, control strategies and Matlab / Simulink. Max. number of PhD students:2 93 Prof. Dr. Joeri Van Mierlo Engineering - Electro- and Energytechnics Joeri.Van.Mierlo@vu b.ac.be Analysis and Intelligent Power Control for Future Integration of Electric Vehicles with Smart Microgrids In this PhD, a comprehensive analysis of the EVs integration with the smart microgrids from the point of views of power quality, economic issues, safety issue and handling peak power demands will be presented and evaluated. This PhD will propose an intelligent power control in order to achieve the optimal integration of EVs with smart microgrids and optimize the reuse of the vehicle batteries to be used as an energy storage system for those microgrids. The complete system will be modeled and investigated by using Matlab simulation program. This model will be validated by using measured data. In addition, this PhD will be used to develop new regulations for integrating the EVs with smart microgrids for future generations of those clean vehicles. PhD Requirements: The successful applicant should have a master degree or equivalent from an academic institution in Electrical Engineering. The applicant must have good communication skills in English. The applicant should have ability to work independently, to carry out complicated tasks, and to be a part of a large teamwork. At least two recommendation letters should be provided. Preferred skill requirements include knowledge of hybrid electric vehicles and electric vehicles, power electronics, storage energy systems, control strategies and Matlab / Simulink. Max. number of PhD students: 2 i.vub.ac.be /

61 94 Prof. Dr. Ghader Ghorbaniasl Engineering - Mechanical Engineering Department Noise control of landing gear components by an air curtain Landing gear components are an important contributor to aircraft noise, during the takeoff and landing stages of flight. Due to the complex geometry of landing gear, their interaction with other airframe parts leads to generation of a vastly broadband noise signature. Among several passive or active techniques suggested to control landing gear noise, the air curtain concept presents promising potential [1]. The application of air curtains is based on reducing local flow velocities, in order to subsequently reduce the generated aerodynamic noise. This can be achieved by introducing one or more jets upstream of the component, thus deflecting the flow around it. The present proposal is focused on a computational investigation of a wide range of air curtain designs, in order to assess their acoustical efficiency and industrial applicability. Air curtains comprising of one or more nozzles will be accounted for, generating both vertical and oblique jets upstream of the landing gear. Nozzle position, size and shape, as well as jet velocity, are the parameters that will be adjusted and their effect on noise control will be evaluated. Main objective of the study is to reach a deeper understanding of the acoustic behavior of air curtains, particularly at high jet velocities. Estimating and improving the efficiency of air curtains at high jet velocities presents an important challenge, since noise generated by the jet itself may lead to increased sound emissions. [1] S. Oerlemans and A. de Bruin, "Reduction of Landing Gear Noise Using an Air Curtain," in 15th AIAA/CEAS Aeroacoustics Conference, AIAA , Miami, Florida, h.vub.ac.be /thermody namics/me mbers/gha der%20gh orbaniasl.h tm

62 95 Prof. Dr. Ghader Ghorbaniasl Engineering - Mechanical Engineering Department Robust design under uncertainty in computational aeroacoustics Optimization of the acoustic performance of aerodynamic components requires accounting for a large number of parameters and objectives. When design of realistic industrial cases is concerned, the effect of uncertainties inherent to the manufacturing and modelling procedure should also be addressed. In this context, robust design methodologies should be capable of handling large number of design parameters, objectives and uncertainties. The aim of this proposal is to suggest an efficient methodology for robust design under uncertainty of aerodynamic components, when optimization of acoustic performance is required. The focus will be placed on the use of a hybrid computational aeroacoustics approach for noise prediction and the treatment of the uncertainties related to the computational approach. Since geometrical uncertainties are of great significance during design and manufacturing, they will be modelled individually. Then an efficient approach for treatment of a large number of uncertainties will be developed, based on non-intrusive methods. Epistemic uncertainties, related to the used turbulence models will also be investigated in order to assess their effect on flow and noise emissions. The developed methodology for treatment of uncertainties will then be implemented in an optimization study of realistic industrial cases, where aeroacoustic and aerodynamic performance are of primary importance. The final outcome is expected to introduce a methodology which will allow to achieve substantial improvement in both the quality and the efficiency of multi-objective optimization under uncertainty, when acoustic propagation is simulated by a hybrid computational aeroacoustics approach. h.vub.ac.be /thermody namics/me mbers/gha der%20gh orbaniasl.h tm

63 96 97 Prof. Dr. Annick Hubin Prof. Dr. Guy Van Assche Engineering - Materials and Chemistry Engineering - Physical Chemistry and Polymer Science (FYSC) [email protected] [email protected] Study and modelling of the state of health of batteries Development of a microfluidic stopped flow calorimeter for studying enzyme reaction kinetics Electricity will be increasingly produced from sources that are intermittent in their nature. Consequently, there is an urgent need to increase the storage of energy, requiring advanced materials for energy. More efficient energy generation, storage or transmission may be reached by improving the understanding of the influence of the long-term stability on the performance of the functional materials and its impact on the overall performance of the systems, and by addressing new electrode and electrolyte materials with improved efficiency, durability and cyclability. Also the storage of excess energy produced from renewable energies will become an important topic in the next few years. We are searching for novel, low cost, high capacity materials (electrodes, electrolytes ) to improve lifetime and cycle life of batteries. To that end, degradation mechanisms need to be better understood. Study of ageing and decomposition of battery materials as a function of time is the topic of this PhD. Both experimental and modelling activities are to be performed (electrochemical and surface analytical materials characterisation as input for a state of health model). This project aims at the development of a microfluidic flow calorimeter that would be suitable for studying fast enzyme or solution reactions in small liquid samples. Although some flow calorimetry devices where developed at the end of the 60's and 70's, recent development in this field is quite limited. This multidisciplinary subject combines the instrument development supported by heat transfer modelling, the validation of the technique, and the experimental exploration in diverse scientific fields. The project will be in close cooperation with Prof. Wim De Malsche of the Chemical Engineering department (VUB) who is specialized in the development of microfluidic processes. We are looking for 1 or 2 PhD students. Either 1 student combines the experimental and the modelling part, either each of them tackles one aspect. Collaboration is necessary. For supervision, both aspects are in the competences of the SURF group. For the experimental part, high tech equipment and expertise are in house both for electrochemical as for surface analytical techniques. For the electrochemical modelling, we are experts in numerical simulations of the wide spectrum of electrochemical processes that are often coupled with transport and heat transfer phenomena. Max. 1 PhD student For this multidisciplinary project we are looking for a PhD candidate with a chemical engineering background, having a good background thermodynamics, reaction kinetics, heat transfer, and fluid flow. We offer an international working environment located inside the Brussels city. Our group is specialized in the development of novel advanced thermal analysis methods and techniques, mostly focusing on macromolecular materials, thermal behavior, and process e/ir/englis h/?option= com_conte nt&task=vi ew&id=27 &Itemid=4 1 e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=40148

64 kinetics. 98 Prof. Dr. Guy Van Assche Engineering - Physical Chemistry and Polymer Science (FYSC) [email protected] Study and modelling of the network formation of novel polyurethane systems for composites processing Until recently polyurethanes were little used for composites processing because of their high reactivity immediately upon mixing. Recently developed polyurethane systems display a delayed polymerization process, making them suitable for composites processing methods like resin transfer molding. As polyurethanes have typically better impact properties than epoxy resins, these novel materials will find application in automotive and aerospace sectors, revolutionizing the composites world. To optimize their processing, the polymerization kinetics and the changing rheological properties are of key importance. These will be studied and modeled using state-of-the-art instrumentation, including the in-house developed RheoDSC. Max. 2 PhD students We offer an international research environment within the city of Brussels. Our group specializes in the development of novel thermal analysis methods and equipment for studying polymer-based materials, thermal behavior, and the kinetics of processes. This work is in close relation with industrial partners. e/infovoor/ onderzoek ers/researc h/person.p hp?person _id=40148

65 Prof. Dr. Prof. Beat Signer Prof. Dr. Rik Pintelon Engineering - Computer Science (DINF) Engineering - Electricity [email protected] [email protected]. be Personal Information Management (PIM) measurement and modeling of timevariant systems Personal Information Management (PIM) deals with the collection, organisation and retrieval of personal information. While most existing solutions focus on managing digital information only, our research on Personal Cross-Media Information Management investigates solutions and frameworks that bridge the gap between digital and physical information spaces. We aim for less information fragmentation by developing the necessary infrastructure to store, organise and link information across different types of media (e.g. s, digital documents as well as printed articles and books or handwritten notes). Depending on a potential candidate's expertise and interests, we see different possible research directions in the domain of Personal Cross-Media Information Management, ranging from the development of enhanced data management and linking solutions for digital and physical information to solutions for the sharing of information between users and the enhanced tracking and integration of physical and digital information. The use of Digital Pen and Paper technology in the context of personal information management for integrating paper documents with digital information and services in another potential research direction. Last but not least, there is a need for innovative cross-media user interfaces that go beyond the classical Desktop Metaphor in order to manage and efficiently retrieve information managed by a Personal Cross-Media Information Management solution. Although the linear time-invariant framework has been very succesful in engineering applications such as control, prototyping (computer aided design), physical modeling, prediction,..., the ever increasing demand in accuracy and performance of new products puts stricter requirements on the dynamical models used. Since, real life systems behave only approximately linear and time-invariant, there is a real need to extend the classical linear time-invariant framework to a nonlinear time-variant setting. Examples of time-variant dynamics can be found in a lot of applications suchs as mechanics (wind-turbines, rotating machinery), electronics (mixers, power amplifiers), biomedical measurements (e.g. fatigue, aging, and mortification; or the quasi periodic timevariation induced by the hart beat and breathing), corrosion processes (e.g. pit corrosion of metals), the state-of-charge The candidate should have a background in Computer Science or a related field. Preference will be given to candidates with a strong expertise in one or multiple of the following domains: databases and information systems, information retrieval, knowledge management, ubiquitous computing and human-computer interaction. maximum 2 PhD researchers beat-signer relec.be/pe ople/rikpintelon

66 measurement of Li ion batteries,... Developing system identification algorithms for identifying (non)linear time-variant models from noisy measurements is the core topic of each PhD proposal. First the methods are tried out on simulation examples, next on dedicated lab experiments, and finally on a societal relevant (industrial) problem.