Postdoctoral Scholarship in Social Sciences

University of Antwerp

Department: Communication Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Antwerp
Regime: Full-time (100%)

Position Details

  • Duration: 1-year doctoral scholarship, extendable up to 4 years following positive evaluation
  • Start Date: June 1, 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter
  • Location: City Campus, University of Antwerp, with occasional work at Maastricht University (Faculty of Health, Medicine, and Life Science, Department of Rheumatology)
  • Application Deadline: April 23, 2026 (midnight Brussels time)

About the Project

The doctoral project is part of the CircBioCare consortium (https://www.circbiocare.com), which develops AI-informed early detection tools for knee osteoarthritis—a leading cause of disability affecting over half a billion people globally.

Focus: Investigate how AI-based early detection tools can be communicated to societal stakeholders to promote acceptance and uptake.

Research Environment: Embedded within the MIOS research group (Media & ICT in Organisations & Society), part of an interdisciplinary network across faculties.

Responsibilities

  • Prepare and defend a PhD thesis in Medical Communication and Psychology.
  • Conduct research and publish scientific articles related to the project.
  • Present research at national and international conferences.
  • Participate in the activities of the MIOS research group.
  • Carry out limited teaching support tasks aligned with the research topic.

Candidate Profile

  • Master’s degree in Communication Sciences, Medical Psychology, Health Sciences, or related field (must be obtained by start date).
  • Strong experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods.
  • Comfortable conducting research in multidisciplinary teams.
  • Fluent Dutch (reading, speaking, writing) and fluent English.
  • Research and teaching qualities aligned with university policies.
  • Attention to quality, integrity, creativity, cooperation, and a result-oriented academic attitude.

What We Offer

  • Doctoral scholarship according to University of Antwerp pay scales.
  • Ecocheques, internet connectivity allowance, and bicycle allowance or public transport reimbursement.
  • Access to a broad range of courses and educational credits via the Antwerp Doctoral School.
  • A dynamic, interdisciplinary, and stimulating working environment.

Application Instructions

Apply via the University of Antwerp online job application platform. Include:

  1. Motivation letter
  2. Academic CV
  3. Transcript of records

Selection Process:

  • Committee reviews applications after the deadline.
  • Interviews expected in the first two weeks of May (online options available).

Contact for Inquiries:

Equal Opportunity

  • University of Antwerp promotes diversity and inclusion, and encourages applicants from all backgrounds.
  • Policies are guided by the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award.
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