Postdoc Position in Philosophy

Radboud University

Employment: 0.8 FTE
Gross monthly salary: €3,546 – €5,538
Required background: PhD
Organizational unit: Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies
Application deadline: 08 March 2026

About the Position

Radboud University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for the NWO project Ethnicity and (In)Equality in Early Christianity.

Project aim: Develop a thorough understanding of early Christian views on ethnic equality and inequality during the first–fourth centuries CE.

Research tasks:

  • Analyse depictions of people with different ethnic backgrounds in early Christian texts

  • Examine the degree to which these authors reinforced or challenged ethnic stereotypes

  • Investigate potential influence of these texts on later ideas about race and ethnic difference

Additional responsibilities:

  • Conduct independent research and produce sole-authored articles

  • Contribute to collaborative publications

  • Present work at conferences and workshops

  • Host visiting fellows and help organize international conferences

  • Engage in public-facing activities (optional)

  • Limited teaching and PhD supervision (optional)

Applicants will also submit a brief statement during the application process, discussing two early Christian authors or texts they would analyse and why, considering the project’s overall goals.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a candidate who:

  • Holds a PhD in early Christian studies or a related field (final-stage doctoral candidates will also be considered)

  • Has a strong command of relevant research languages

  • Demonstrates research potential (e.g., publications, high-quality dissertation)

  • Lives within commuting distance of Nijmegen

What We Offer

  • Temporary employment contract of 2 years, extendable by 1 year upon successful evaluation (total 3 years)

  • Salary within scale 10, based on previous education and relevant work experience (38-hour week)

  • 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus

  • Choice of 30 or 41 days of annual leave instead of the statutory 20

  • Flexible working hours, work-from-home options, sports/cultural discounts, and pension plan

  • Room and responsibility to develop talents and ambitions, with access to training and development schemes

Working Environment

Research Team:

  • PI, two postdoctoral researchers, student assistant, visiting fellows

  • Supported by advisory board of senior scholars

Faculty:

  • Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies

  • International research community with expertise in Biblical Studies and the historical/conceptual study of race and racism

  • Close collaboration with departments of Ancient History and Classics

Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies

  • Staff and students reflect on major societal challenges through philosophical and religious perspectives

  • Faculty employs over 180 staff, organized in eight academic and four support departments

  • Academics collaborate in six research centres and teach over 1,000 students

Radboud University

Radboud University aims to impact society through research, education, support, and collaboration, fostering a healthy, free world with equal opportunities. The university values inclusivity and welcomes employees with diverse backgrounds.

Application Procedure

  • Apply online via the application form (address letter to Dr. Matthijs den Dulk)

  • First interviews: 23 March 2026

  • Preferred start date: 15 June 2026

  • Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated

Contact: Dr. M. den Dulk – matthijs.dendulk [at] ru.nl

Apply