PhD position: Building the Next-Generation Data Anonymization Engines

KU LEUVEN, Belgium

Updated: 10 days ago
Job Type: FullTime
Deadline: 29 May 2026

10 Apr 2026
Job Information
Organisation/Company

KU LEUVEN
Research Field

Computer science » Informatics
Computer science » Computer architecture
Researcher Profile

First Stage Researcher (R1)
Application Deadline

29 May 2026 - 23:59 (UTC)
Country

Belgium
Type of Contract

Temporary
Job Status

Full-time
Offer Starting Date

1 Sep 2026
Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme
Reference Number

BAP-2026-230
Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure?

No

Offer Description

The PhD candidate will work on next-generation anonymization engines that will become a key component in protecting the privacy of individuals in highly sensitive datasets. In particular, the candidate will investigate the potential of hybrid anonymization pipelines by combining statistical, synthetic, and decentralized methods to improve both the privacy and utility of anonymized datasets. Moreover, this research will examine the potential of AI and LLM technologies as promising mechanisms to reduce the burden on data managers currently involved in this process.

  • You obtained your master’s degree (or you are about to graduate in 2026) in Computer Science, or a similar degree with an equivalent academic level. 
  • You have a strong interest in data management, privacy protection and privacy enhancing technologies.
  • Excellent results in prior studies are a requirement (cum laude – distinction, or higher).
  • You can conduct independent research (demonstrated, e.g., by an excellent Master’s thesis) as well as collaborate well in teams.
  • You have excellent command of spoken and written English and are equipped with good communication skills.
  • You are willing to participate in (international) seminars and conferences.
  • You will also give guidance to students, be involved in teaching activities and in the supervision of exams.
  • A fulltime PhD position for 1 year, starting Summer 2026, renewable up to a maximum of four years upon yearly successful evaluations. The work should lead to a PhD degree.
  • An interesting and diverse job within a dynamic and pleasant working environment, in a group conducting research at the highest international standards.
  • A social, tolerant, and constructive workplace that offers ample opportunities for personal development.
  • Numerous opportunities for personal growth, illustrated by e.g., conference participation, “doctoral schools” courses on transferable skills, participation in educational initiatives, and publication opportunities.

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Vincent Naessens, mail: vincent.naessens@kuleuven.be .


Where to apply
Website
https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/60654829?hl=en

Requirements
Research Field
Computer science
Education Level
Master Degree or equivalent

Languages
ENGLISH
Level
Basic

Research Field
Computer science » Informatics
Years of Research Experience
None

Additional Information
Benefits
  • A fulltime PhD position for 1 year, starting Summer 2026, renewable up to a maximum of four years upon yearly successful evaluations. The work should lead to a PhD degree.
  • An interesting and diverse job within a dynamic and pleasant working environment, in a group conducting research at the highest international standards.
  • A social, tolerant, and constructive workplace that offers ample opportunities for personal development.
  • Numerous opportunities for personal growth, illustrated by e.g., conference participation, “doctoral schools” courses on transferable skills, participation in educational initiatives, and publication opportunities.

Eligibility criteria
  • You obtained your master’s degree (or you are about to graduate in 2026) in Computer Science, or a similar degree with an equivalent academic level. 
  • You have a strong interest in data management, privacy protection and privacy enhancing technologies.
  • Excellent results in prior studies are a requirement (cum laude – distinction, or higher).
  • You can conduct independent research (demonstrated, e.g., by an excellent Master’s thesis) as well as collaborate well in teams.
  • You have excellent command of spoken and written English and are equipped with good communication skills.
  • You are willing to participate in (international) seminars and conferences.
  • You will also give guidance to students, be involved in teaching activities and in the supervision of exams.

Selection process

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Vincent Naessens, mail: vincent.naessens@kuleuven.be .


Website for additional job details

https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/60654829?hl=en

Work Location(s)
Number of offers available
1
Company/Institute
KU LEUVEN
Country
Belgium
City
Gent
Geofield


Contact
City

Gent

STATUS: EXPIRED

  • X (formerly Twitter)
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Whatsapp

  • More share options
    • E-mail
    • Pocket
    • Viadeo
    • Gmail
    • Weibo
    • Blogger
    • Qzone
    • YahooMail


Similar Positions