Dirk Van Merode

Dirk Van Merode is a Lecturer and Research Engineer at AP University College in Antwerp. Previously, he worked at Lessius University College (now Thomas More University College) since 2007. He specializes in Internet-of-Things, digital systems design, printed circuit board (PCB) design and production, embedded systems, audio-video production, and space applications/satellite development. His research focuses on European collaborative projects, including curriculum development, student/staff mobility, and 21st-century skills for evolving labor markets, particularly in Flanders-Netherlands harbor regions. He has coordinated/cooperated in numerous international projects across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Education:

• Master in Sciences (Electronics Engineering) – 2002
• Pedagogical diploma from secondary education

Research Interests:

• IoT and embedded systems
• PCB design and FPGA/Arduino applications
• Curriculum innovation in space systems/communications engineering
• Educational partnerships in international mobility programs
• Robotics and smart technologies
• Workforce skills development for modern industries

Key Project Roles:

• Coordinator of Erasmus+ KA2 ACTEA (2018-2021) for East African technology curricula
• Coordinator of European TEMPUS DESIRE (2013-2017) for embedded systems education
• Partner/coordinator in multiple Erasmus+ initiatives involving Israel, Ukraine, Georgia, Peru, Uganda, and others
• Leading the Knowledge Center Smart Robotics at AP University College
• Researcher in Interreg Skills Navigator (2018-2020) analyzing labor market needs

Advising & Grants:

• Active in European funding programs (Erasmus+, Tempus, Interreg)
• Advisor in universities across Europe, Asia, and Africa
• Contributed to institutional development projects in Uganda and other countries