A fully funded, full-time PhD student position is available at KU Leuven (Belgium) within the Astronomy and (astro)Physics Education Research group. This interdisciplinary project, iMAP, focuses on bridging the gap between mathematical structure and physical meaning in science education.
Fully Funded PhD Position in Physics & Mathematics Education at KU Leuven, Belgium
Key Information At-a-Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Designation | PhD Student (Full-time position) |
| Research Area | Physics & Mathematics Education Research (APOS theory, STEM learning) |
| Location | Leuven, Belgium |
| Reference Number | BAP-2026-459 |
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2026, at 23:59 CET |
Research Area & Project Summary
Using mathematics in physics requires more than the straightforward application of mathematical procedures. The iMAP project aims to understand how students combine physical meaning with mathematical structures.
By refining and extending the APOS (Action-Process-Object-Schema) theory—a framework traditionally used in Mathematics Education—to include physics, the project will:
- Describe how university-level students learn the mathematical descriptions of physics concepts.
- Develop and evaluate targeted teaching and learning materials.
- Design evidence-based learning environments that effectively bridge mathematics and physics.
The research is conducted in close collaboration with KU Leuven’s Mathematics Education Research group and the Center for the Advancement of STEM Teaching and Learning (CASTeL) at Dublin City University.
Job Description
As a PhD researcher on this project, you will:
- Refine the proposed framework extending APOS theory to physics.
- Investigate student learning processes, identifying obstacles and potential scaffolds.
- Design, implement, and evaluate innovative university-level physics and mathematics teaching materials.
- Work within an inclusive, interdisciplinary environment spanning physics, mathematics, and educational sciences.
Eligibility & Qualifications
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Degree: A completed Master’s degree in physics, mathematics, engineering, or an equivalent field.
- Interests & Experience: A strong interest and experience in teaching, particularly at the university level. A qualification/degree in teacher education (mathematics or physics) is highly valued.
- Skills: Highly motivated for educational research with excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
- Languages: English proficiency is required; knowledge of Dutch is considered an asset.
How to Apply
- Get More Information: For informal inquiries regarding the project and the role, you can contact the project lead, Prof. dr. Mieke De Cock, via email at mieke.decock@kuleuven.be.
- Submit Your Application: Applications must be submitted online. You can access the portal directly through the KU Leuven Online Application Tool.
Last Date to Apply: August 31, 2026 (by 23:59 CET)
