PhD track researcher

YOUR TASKS
As the successful candidate for this joint PhD position at the Faculty of Economics and Business (KU Leuven) and the Department of Economics (Ghent University), in collaboration with Prometis Lab- a joint venture between Ghent University and BNP Paribas Fortis, you will conduct pioneering research on the role of data governance in designing and implementing fintech solutions. The project lies at the intersection of information economics, digital finance, and technology policy.

Project overview

In an era where data is increasingly viewed as the world’s foremost resource, the financial sector and other data-intensive industries are experiencing profound structural shifts. These developments are driven by the private sector’s quest for digital opportunities, as well as governments’ goals to ensure stability, competitiveness, and market integrity. Alongside these shifts come tensions and uncertainties: while financial institutions adapt their business models to capitalize on data, governments are formulating regulations that shape institutional rights and access to both industrial and personal data.

This PhD research project tackles these challenges head-on, focusing on both exploring novel data-driven solutions and ensuring appropriate public data policies. We will apply tools and models from fields such as economics, computer science, engineering, and public policy to address theoretical and empirical questions around data valuation, data privacy, data sharing, and data integrity. Ultimately, the project aims to make a substantial contribution to academic research and practical applications in banking, fintech, and public policy. You will work under the academic supervision of Prof. Tarik Roukny (KU Leuven) and Prof. Koen Schoors (Ghent University), as well as the industry supervision of Dr. Milan van den Heuvel (Prometis Lab).

Your responsibilities will thus be to:

• Conduct high-quality research in data governance and fintech.
• Collaborate and communicate with academic supervisors and industry partners (Prometis Lab, BNP Paribas Fortis), as well as with a broader team of experts.
• Analyze large-scale banking data to identify information frictions and assess the applicability of innovative data-driven solutions.
• Develop models and methodologies for analyzing incentives and processes relevant to the deployment of fintech innovations.
• Produce robust, evidence-based findings with tangible implications for the financial industry and policy-making.

At least 90% of your assignment will be devoted to academic research in preparation for a doctoral dissertation.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We seek a highly motivated and talented individual who is eager to dive into the complexities of data economics and fintech to deliver a meaningful scholarly and practical impact. The ideal candidate should possess:

• A master’s degree in Economics, Finance, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience and a strong interest in data analysis, preferably using Python.
• A keen intellectual curiosity about the economics of data, digital finance, and the common good.
• The ability to work independently and in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent English written and verbal communication skills.

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU

By joining this PhD program, you will be involved in innovative research with high societal, academic, and industry impact. We offer:

• The chance to collaborate closely with academics at KU Leuven (e.g., Prof. Tarik Roukny) and Ghent University (e.g., Prof. Koen Schoors), as well as Prometis Lab (Dr. Milan van den Heuvel).
• A stimulating research environment across two leading universities and an innovative research lab, providing you with access to a vast network of experts in the field.
• Valuable industry exposure, conducting research in the context of one of the world’s largest banking groups (BNP Paribas Fortis).
• A collaborative and innovative atmosphere that challenges you, expands your expertise, and enables you to make a tangible difference in finance and policy.

Practicalities

• We offer you a contract of indefinite duration with a maximum term of 4 years.
• Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale WM1. Click here for more information about our salary scales.
• All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits (in Dutch).

INTERESTED?

Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline. We do not accept late applications or applications that are not submitted through the online system.

Your application must include the following documents:

• In the field ‘CV’: your CV and an overview of your study results (merged into one pdf file)
• In the field ‘Cover letter’: A max 2-page cover letter explaining your interest in the project and how your background fits the research focus. Pdf format.
• In the field ‘Diploma’: a transcript of the required degree (if already in your possession). If you have a foreign diploma in a language other than our national languages (Dutch, French or German) or English, please add a translation in one of the mentioned languages.
• In the field “other documents”: (optional) Two reference letters and contact details for references

Note that the maximum file size for each field is 10 MB.

As Ghent University and KU Leuven maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about this vacancy, please contact:

• Prof. Tarik Roukny – KU Leuven (Tarik.Roukny@kuleuven.be)
• dr. Milan van den Heuvel – Prometis Lab, Ghent University (Milan.vandenHeuvel@UGent.be)
• Prof. Koen Schoors – Ghent University (Koen.Schoors@UGent.be)

Important: Please do not send your application by email. Only applications submitted online via the e-recruitment system will be considered.

Do you have a question regarding the online application process? Please read the FAQ or contact us via selecties@ugent.be or +32 9 264 34 36

More Information