About the Position

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel is offering a PhD scholarship to an enthusiastic and driven individual to lead and contribute to the innovative AI Accelerator Program, combining cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence (AI) with practical applications in entrepreneurship and sustainability. This is an exceptional opportunity to play a pivotal role in fostering a vibrant AI-driven startup ecosystem in Brussels while advancing your academic career.

As a PhD researcher, you will work at the Faculty of Social Sciences & Solvay Business School, Department of Business Technology and Operations, and become an integral part of two leading initiatives:

• BUDA: A research group focused on sustainable business development supported by AI.
• FARI: A non-profit institute leveraging AI, data, and robotics for social good, emphasizing urban and sustainable innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Program Management: Lead the operational delivery of the AI Accelerator Program, including participant selection, workshops, and networking events.
• Research: Conduct cutting-edge research on AI, entrepreneurship, and sustainability, culminating in a doctoral thesis.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with startups, mentors, investors, researchers, and policymakers to strengthen the innovation ecosystem.
• Academic Guidance: Provide strategic and academic support to startups to ensure their success and growth.
• Outcome Reporting: Monitor and communicate program outcomes to internal and external stakeholders.

Your main work location will be at the FARI offices in BeCentral, a vibrant tech hub in the heart of Brussels, with occasional activities on the VUB Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus (Elsene).

Eligibility Requirements

We are hiring candidates who meet the following criteria:

1. Academic Background:
   • Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Business Informatics, Innovation Management, or a related field.
2. Experience:
   • Proven experience in AI, entrepreneurship, or startup ecosystems.
   • Demonstrated ability in project management and organizational skills.
3. Skills:
   • Strong intrinsic motivation, self-organization, and commitment to excellence.
   • Proficiency in English (mandatory); working knowledge of Dutch or French is highly desirable.
4. Mindset:
   • A start-up mentality with a proactive and innovative approach to problem-solving.

Note: Candidates must not have previously held a paid assistantship exceeding 12 months from operating resources.

What We Offer

At VUB, you will benefit from:

• PhD Scholarship: Full-time scholarship for 12 months, extendable to a maximum of 48 months upon positive evaluation.
• Dynamic Work Environment: An open and diverse workplace fostering innovation, creativity, and inclusivity.
• Comprehensive Benefits:
  • Extensive remote working options with allowances.
  • Exceptional holiday arrangements (35 days of leave, plus closure between Christmas and New Year, and 3 additional days off).
  • Cost-free hospitalization insurance.
  • Reimbursement for public transport or compensation for cycling to work.
  • Discounts in campus restaurants, sports facilities, and via Benefits@Work.
  • Eco-vouchers and childcare support.
• Professional Development: Opportunities to shape your role, continuously learn through VUB training platforms, and build your academic and professional career.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their application via the official VUB jobs portal by January 31, 2025, including:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting academic and professional achievements.
2. Motivation Letter: Explaining your interest in the position and how you align with the role.
3. Diploma: (Not applicable for VUB alumni).