Doctoral scholarship holder methodology for assessing the perception of space in interior architecture through 3D digital tools

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The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking, European university. We offer an innovative academic education to more than 20000 students, conduct pioneering scientific research and play an important service-providing role in society. We are one of the largest, most international and most innovative employers in the region. With more than 6000 employees from 100 different countries, we are helping to build tomorrow's world every day. Through top scientific research, we push back boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape. 

The Research group Henry van de Velde in the Faculty of Design Sciences is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder who would like to work on defining a methodology for assessing the perception of space in interior architecture through 3D digital tools. The goal of this PhD is to craft a methodology for digitally assessing multi-sensory visual satisfaction and well-being of users regarding interior architecture, with practical applicability throughout the design process with the ultimate goal of fostering user-centric architectural design. This PhD research hypothesis is that including digital spatial displays for various perception channels during the design stage in interior architecture, increases the possibility of assessment of well-being. This PhD research will also use infrastructure/knowledge at the augmented fabrication lab of research group Product Development.

Position

• You will work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of interior architecture.
• You will publish scientific articles related to the research project in journals with impact factor.
• You participate and support activities of the research group Henry van de Velde.

Profile

• You hold a Master degree in architecture, interior architecture, engineering-architecture, or another relevant discipline or you will have obtained it by the time you start work.
• You can demonstrate excellent study results.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• You are willing to collaborate interdisciplinary.
• You have a strong motivation and strong time planning skills.
• Language requirements: English (active) mandatory, Dutch is a plus.
• Experience in architectural design practice is a plus.
• Experience with 3D digital tools (such as CAD/BIM, game engines, XR software) is a plus.
• Experience with a wide range of research methodologies (quantitative and qualitative) is a plus.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of one year. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed for another three years.
• The planned start date is 15 September 2024 or as soon as possible after that date.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders on the pay scales for Contract Research Staff (Dutch: Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP).
• You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• You will do most of your work at Campus Stad in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including 5 June 2024 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
• a motivation letter.
• your academic CV (including publications and achievements in the area of scientific research as well as language and software skills).
• a portfolio of your work contextualising research methods and digital tools used.
• position statement on research and (interior) architecture related to the call (max. 600 words).
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Sara Eloy, Associate Professor, sara.eloy@uantwerpen.be.

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.