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Geert Deconinck is a full professor at KU Leuven , leading the Electrical Energy Systems and Applications (ELECTA) research group within the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT). He also serves as scientific leader of the EnergyVille research center's algorithms domain, focusing on smart electrical networks and thermal systems. M.Sc. and Ph.D. from KU Leuven Head of ELECTA since 2012 (10 professors, 8 postdocs, 70+ PhDs) Over 8 million EUR research budget in last 5 years 44 completed PhDs and 10 current advisees IEEE Transactions editorial board member His research spans smart grid architectures , distributed control , and cyber-physical security , with recent focus on EV-grid integration , renewable energy democratization , and multi-carrier energy systems . Current projects include: Smart Charging - E-Mobility meets Renewable Energy Early Detection and Defense Systems for Smart Grids Open-source P2P energy sharing platforms Microgrid control strategies for PV-battery systems Awarded IET Fellow and IEEE Senior Member status, his work combines machine learning with power systems engineering through both theoretical modeling and experimental validation . He has contributed over 575 publications with 9800+ Google Scholar citations.

• Smart Grids
• Distributed Control Systems
• Renewable Energy Integration
• +6 more

Johan Driesen is a full Professor at KU Leuven's Faculty of Engineering Sciences, where he serves as Department Head of Electrical Energy Systems and Applications (ELECTA) and Director of the KU Leuven Institute for Energy and Society (KIEM). He also holds leadership positions at EnergyVille as Division Head and Subdivision Head. His work spans both academic and applied research in electrical energy systems. His research interests focus on renewable energy integration, power electronics, electrical drives, electric vehicles, and smart grids. Driesen's work particularly emphasizes distributed generation of electricity, with significant contributions to floating photovoltaics, offshore wind integration, and low-voltage DC systems. His research group actively investigates the optimization of grid integration for renewable energy sources and the development of advanced power electronic converters. Driesen's recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on practical applications of renewable energy systems, with particular focus on reliability analysis of low-voltage DC systems, optimization of PV-battery systems, and integration of electric vehicles with renewable energy sources. His work bridges theoretical analysis with real-world implementation challenges. Laureate prize of the Belgian Royal Society of Electrotechnics (KBVE/SRBE) 'Research and Development' for master theses 1996 2nd place in final round IEEE Region 8 Student Paper Contest 1997 in München, Germany Laureate biannual prize 'R.Sinave' of the Belgian Royal Society of Electrotechnics (KBVE/SRBE) for best PhDs 2002 Driesen has supervised numerous students and researchers, including J. Despeghel who completed work on residential PV-battery system optimization. His current research portfolio includes substantial projects such as Flux50 (working on the future energy system), solar and wind energy in the Belgian marine zone, and smart charging solutions that integrate e-mobility with renewable energy. He serves as promoter or co-promoter on multiple major research initiatives with funding extending through 2028. At EnergyVille, Driesen leads research teams working on cutting-edge energy solutions, with particular focus on DC systems, grid integration challenges, and the development of innovative power electronic solutions for renewable energy applications. His work has significant industrial relevance and practical implementation potential.

• Renewable Energy
• Power Electronics
• Electrical Drives
• +7 more

Bruno Volckaert is a Professor in the Department of Information Technology at Ghent University and Senior Researcher at imec. He obtained his Master of Computer Science (2001) and PhD in Grid Computing Resource Management (2006) from Ghent University. His research focuses on distributed cloud systems for Smart Cities and Industry 4.0 applications. Volckaert's expertise spans: Reliable distributed cloud backend systems Autonomous optimization of cloud applications Cybersecurity through machine learning IoT data processing architectures Kubernetes-based container orchestration Edge-to-cloud continuum computing His publications demonstrate strong focus on: cloud-native technologies, Kubernetes optimization, cybersecurity frameworks, and distributed AI systems. Recent work emphasizes reinforcement learning for auto-scaling, secure edge computing, and intrusion detection systems. He has contributed to over 40 national/international research projects and authored 100+ publications. Current affiliations include leadership roles in: IDLab Research Unit (Ghent University) imec Research Center

• Cloud Computing
• Cybersecurity
• Internet of Things
• +7 more

Pieter Ballon is a Full Professor at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and Director of imec-SMIT, part of the Studies in Media, Innovation and Technology (SMIT) research group. He holds dual affiliations in Communication Sciences and SMIT. His roles include leadership in interdisciplinary research projects and academic administration. Research expertise focuses on Smart Cities, Digital Platforms, and ICT business models. Key interests include platform urbanism, data ecosystems, and algorithmic systems' societal impacts. He has supervised 122 academic works, including 8 master’s theses listed here. Notable awards include the 1st Brussels Smart City Ambassador (2016-2017) and multiple Best Paper Awards. His work spans over 300 publications and 75 research projects, with active grants like SHALGO (2024-2028) and AMAI 5 (2025-2026). He frequently engages in public debates, academic conferences, and media discussions on topics like algorithmic governance and smart city technologies.

• Smart Cities
• Digital Platforms
• Business Models for ICT Systems
• +4 more

Michael Kleemann is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Engineering Technology within KU Leuven , affiliated with the Department of Electrical Engineering (ESAT) . His research focuses on Power System Protection , Wireless Power Transfer , and Renewable Energy Integration , with a particular emphasis on inverter-based grid dynamics and fault analysis. Key Research Areas : Power system protection algorithms, capacitive wireless power transfer, fault location methods in medium voltage cables, and grid stability with high renewable penetration. Notable Projects : Lead projects on Protection of Future Distribution Grids (2021-2025), Capacitive Wireless Power Transfer (2020-2024), and Flux 50 ICON (2024-2026) for low-voltage DC grid protection. Publication Trends : Recent work explores capacitive wireless power transfer materials and control systems (2024-2025), fault detection algorithms for inverter-dominated grids (2023-2025), and machine learning applications in voltage regulation for photovoltaic-rich networks (2024). Teaching : Courses include Power System Protection (JPI322), Power Electronics (JPI0L8/JPI318), and Capacitive Wireless Transfer topics in graduate seminars.

• Power System Protection
• Power Electronics
• High Voltage Engineering
• +4 more

Omar Hegazy is a Professor in Electrical Engineering and Power Electronics at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), affiliated with the MOBI - Electromobility Research Centre. He leads research in power electronics systems, electric vehicle drivetrains, and energy management. His work focuses on reliability, WBG semiconductors, and sustainable transportation systems. Education details are not explicitly provided, but his extensive publication record and project leadership imply advanced academic qualifications. Research interests include power electronics, battery management systems, hybrid/fuel cell vehicles, and V2X technologies. His projects address challenges in electric vehicle infrastructure, grid integration, and renewable energy systems. Key trends in his articles include digital twin development for electric trucks, advanced thermal management of SiC devices, and optimization of DC charging systems. His work emphasizes practical applications like modular converters, fault-tolerant drives, and interoperable charging solutions. Awarded Best Master Thesis (2019), Best Paper (2024), and Optimal Design Recognition (2016) Supervised over 49 theses, including master's and doctoral studies in power electronics and EV systems Secured funding for projects like HiPower 5.0, HARPOONERS, and FLEXMCS Labs/Teams: Active in MOBI's Electromobility Research Centre, collaborating on advanced power electronics and e-mobility solutions. Involved in interdisciplinary teams for microgrid design and DC charging infrastructure.

• Power Electronics Systems
• Electric Vehicles
• Battery Management Systems
• +7 more

Wout Weijtjens is a Research Fellow at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, affiliated with the Acoustics & Vibration Research Group in Applied Mechanics. His research focuses on structural health monitoring (SHM) of offshore wind turbines, fatigue analysis, and vibration-based damage detection using advanced signal processing and machine learning techniques. Current projects include FIRMEST (fatigue assessment of offshore wind turbine substructures) and FOOS (Forced Oscillations in turbines). His research interests span: Operational modal analysis for offshore structures Machine learning applications in SHM Fatigue life prediction under environmental variability Sensor networks for infrastructure monitoring Wind turbine dynamics under harsh conditions Recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on developing predictive maintenance frameworks through multivariate sensor data analysis, uncertainty quantification in SHM systems, and validation of computational models against full-scale field measurements. Article trends emphasize machine learning integration with physical models for improved fatigue life assessment. Awards and recognitions include: Best Paper Award (2nd place, 2022) Poster Award (2017) Solvay Award (2015) As principal investigator on multiple grants including VLADBC7 and VLADBC9 projects, he supervises PhD candidates in vibration-based SHM and leads experimental validation at OWI-Lab's Large Climate Chamber. His team develops IoT monitoring solutions for civil infrastructure through the SMART TOWERS initiative.

• Structural Health Monitoring
• Offshore Wind Turbines
• Fatigue Analysis
• +2 more

Overview Mohamed El Baghdadi is a postdoctoral researcher at the MOBI - Electromobility Research Centre and the Department of Electrical Engineering and Power Electronics at Vrije Universiteit Brussel. His work focuses on advanced power electronics for electric vehicles, thermal management systems, and sustainable energy integration. He has led over 30 projects since 2014, including high-profile initiatives like GEARING MOBI and DESTINY. Research Interests His research spans: Electric vehicle powertrains and charging infrastructure SiC/GaN semiconductor cooling solutions Digital twin modeling for power electronics Fuel cell vehicle optimization Thermal management of high-power inverters Key Contributions Recent work includes groundbreaking advancements in: 6-phase motor drive systems Additive-manufactured cooling structures Multiport DC charging strategies Fuel cell coach powertrain design Awards Awarded the Best Paper Award (2024) and WEVJ BEST PAPER AWARD (2021) for contributions to electric vehicle technologies. Collaborations Active collaborations with industry leaders on EU-funded projects like GIANTS and SOCMAAK39, focusing on decarbonization and electromobility innovations.

• Electric Vehicles
• Power Electronics
• Battery Systems
• +4 more

Maarten Blommaert is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Technology at KU Leuven. He leads the Applied Mechanics and Energy conversion (TME) unit at the Geel Campus and heads the Subdivisie EnergyVille TME. His research focuses on numerical optimization of thermal systems, particularly district heating networks, additive manufactured heat exchangers, and plasma-facing components for nuclear fusion reactors. Assistant Professor, KU Leuven Head, Subdivisie EnergyVille TME Member, KIES Institute Member, Leuven.AM Institute Member, EnergyVille Blommaert's research explores three main areas: heat network optimization through automated design tools like PATHOPT, additive manufacturing of high-performance heat exchangers, and thermally resistant wall modules for nuclear fusion reactors. His work combines computational modeling with advanced manufacturing techniques to enhance energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Scientific awards include collaborative research contributions in: Optimizing district heating networks for renewable energy integration Developing next-generation heat exchangers Advancing nuclear fusion reactor technology Blommaert actively supervises research projects in thermal-fluid systems and collaborates with institutions like VITO and EnergyVille. His research team IDEAL (Innovative Design for Energy Applications Lab) specializes in free-shape and topology optimization techniques for energy components and systems.

• Heat Network Optimization
• Additive Manufacturing
• Heat Exchanger Design
• +5 more

Jan De Bruyne is a Lecturer at the Faculty of Law and Criminological Sciences, KU Leuven. He chairs the Research Unit KU Leuven Centre for IT & IP Law and serves as Division Head of the CiTiP Division (Center for IT & IP Law). He is actively involved in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of law, artificial intelligence, and technology, with a focus on liability frameworks, data governance, and ethical AI. Member of Leuven.AI - KU Leuven Institute for Artificial Intelligence Member of LIM - KU Leuven Institute for Mobility Member of LISS - KU Leuven Institute for Sports Sciences His research interests center on legal challenges posed by artificial intelligence, including liability for AI systems, comparative law approaches, and ensuring compliance through design. He explores fairness in AI through moral damage compensation, safety principles in healthcare AI, and regulatory mechanisms for human oversight in AI systems. His work addresses the democratization of Big Tech regulation, quality improvement in hernia surgery via big data, and user flexibility in energy networks. Recent publications analyze intersections between the AI Act and GDPR, EU data regulation for energy transitions, and comparative liability frameworks for autonomous vehicles. As a promotor or co-promotor, he leads 12 active research projects (2024-2028) on topics ranging from AI ethics to medical device regulation. Jan De Bruyne teaches courses including ICT Law, Electronic Contracts Law, and Technology & Law at KU Leuven.

• Law and technology
• Tort law
• Artificial intelligence
• +3 more

Maitane Berecibar is a Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Power Electronics at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, affiliated with the MOBI - Electromobility Research Centre. She leads research on lithium-ion batteries, thermal management systems, and sustainable energy storage solutions. Key roles include project coordination in EU-funded initiatives like GEARING MOBI and REBORN. Her work spans fundamental and applied research, with a focus on battery degradation, fast charging, and second-life applications. Education & Professional Background: While specific academic qualifications are not detailed, her extensive leadership in doctoral and master's theses supervision, along with prestigious grants (e.g., Francqui Start Up Grant), underscores her academic and professional standing. Research Interests: Her work centers on optimizing battery performance through advanced thermal management (e.g., phase-change materials), developing predictive models for battery degradation, and exploring sustainable battery chemistries. She also investigates the integration of batteries into grids and electric vehicles, emphasizing fast charging protocols and safety. Recent Article Trends: Recent publications focus on self-healing batteries, hybrid cooling systems, and solid-state electrolytes. Themes include improving battery longevity, reducing environmental impact, and advancing digitalization in manufacturing processes. Awards & Honors: Francqui Start Up Grant (2023) – Supports innovative battery research FWO Postdoctoral Fellow Senior (2020) – Recognizes her research excellence WEVJ BEST PAPER AWARD (2021) – For contributions to EV battery systems Grants & Projects: Active in >50 projects, including GEARING MOBI (2025–2029) for next-gen EV tech and REBORN (2025–2028) for second-life battery systems. She also co-organizes international conferences like Batteries2025. Labs & Collaborations: Leads interdisciplinary teams in battery design, thermal systems, and sustainability. Collaborates with global institutions on electromobility and decarbonization.

• Lithium-ion batteries
• Battery thermal management systems
• Electric vehicles
• +7 more

Stanislav V. Chicherin is a researcher at the Faculty of Engineering, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, specializing in energy systems and optimization within the Department of Engineering Technology. His work focuses on advancing district heating technologies and thermal network efficiency. District Heating Thermodynamics Energy Systems Optimization Thermal Network Simulation Recent publications highlight his contributions to fifth-generation district heating and cooling networks, multi-energy systems optimization, and robust design methodologies under uncertain energy market conditions. His research employs computational modeling and linear programming techniques to address thermal power flow and demand-side challenges. He actively participates in peer-review activities for journals including Discover Energy , Journal of Cleaner Production , and Applied Energy , and has presented at conferences on synthetic load profile modeling for energy consumption.

• District Heating
• Thermodynamics
• Fluid Mechanics
• +3 more

Professor Dirk Van Hertem is a faculty member at KU Leuven, Belgium, where he leads the Energy Transmission Competence Hub (ETCH) within the ELECTA division. He earned his M.Eng. (2001) from KHK Geel, M.Sc. (2003) and PhD (2009) from KU Leuven, and held a postdoctoral position at KTH Royal Institute of Technology (2010). His research focuses on power system planning, operation, and control, particularly for future transmission systems involving HVDC grids, offshore energy infrastructure, and supergrid concepts. Key research areas include: HVDC grid protection Underground power systems Cost-effective resilient energy supply Renewable energy integration Hybrid AC/DC system optimization He co-edited the seminal book HVDC GRIDS: For Offshore and Supergrid of the Future with researchers from UPC Barcelona and Cardiff University. His team includes 12 postdoctoral researchers and 24 PhD students working on topics ranging from grid restoration algorithms to cable fault localization and digital twin applications. Scientific distinctions: Fellow of the IEEE (PES, IAS) Active member of Cigré Principal investigator in multiple EU-funded projects Teaching responsibilities include advanced power system courses co-taught with senior professors. Regular PhD and postdoc vacancies are available through KU Leuven's job portal and the ETCH website.

• Decision Support for Grid Operators
• Power System Operation and Control
• HVDC Grids
• +4 more

Wim Casteels is a Lecturer and researcher at AP University College, specializing in AI and data science. He transitioned from quantum physics research at the University of Antwerp and Paris to roles in data science at Argenta's Data Analytics Office and imec's IDLab research group. His work focuses on applying AI to education, transportation, and environmental monitoring. He leads projects like AI4UX (user pattern detection), LAP! (learning analytics dashboards), and AI4Care (AI for youth care support). Education: PhD in Physics (University of Antwerp), followed by postdoctoral research on quantum systems in Antwerp and Paris. Transitioned to data science roles in industry and academia. Research Interests: Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Learning Analytics, and AI applications in education and transportation. Projects include developing AI-driven road weather models using vehicle sensor data, predictive student success models, and energy-efficient building control systems. His work emphasizes ethical AI implementation and data-driven decision-making. Key Projects: AI4UX (2023–2025), AHUMAIN (2023–2025), LAP! (2019–2023), and AI4Care (2024–2026). His research is supported by grants like the Industrial Research Fund. Labs/Teams: Part of AP University College's Media, Design and IT Knowledge Center, previously affiliated with imec's IDLab group and Argenta's Data Analytics Office.

• Data Science
• Machine Learning
• Artificial Intelligence
• +4 more

Emmanuel De Jaeger is a Professor of Electrical Energy and Power Systems at the University of Louvain (UCLouvain) , Belgium, since 2012. He serves as Director of Studies for Electro-mechanical and Energy Engineering programs. Previously, he held leadership roles at Laborelec (ENGIE Lab) from 1991-2012, including Scientific Director and Technical Director of Electricity Grids. Education : 1991: Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, UCLouvain 1985: M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering, UCLouvain His research focuses on energy systems , electrical power systems , power quality , and power electronics , with a strong emphasis on microgrids , smart grids , and renewable energy integration . Recent work includes dynamic modeling of power converters, harmonic disturbances in low-voltage grids, and optimization of energy storage systems. He actively contributes to IEC standardization committees and has published extensively on topics such as pumped storage hydropower , DC microgrid analysis , and voltage control strategies . His teaching portfolio includes courses on electrical power systems , smart grids , and dynamic modeling .

• Energy Systems
• Electrical Power Systems
• Power Quality
• +6 more