Postdoctoral Scholarship in Sociology

University of Antwerp

Overview

  • Department: Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences

  • Regime: Full-time (100%)

  • Position: Doctoral scholarship holder in the field of Sociology

  • Planned start date: September 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter

  • Application deadline: 20 April 2026 (by midnight Brussels time)


About the University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking European university with more than 20,000 students and over 6,000 staff from 100 different countries. It combines innovative academic education with pioneering scientific research and plays a key service-providing role in society. The university values diversity, inclusion, and sustainable, family-friendly policies.


Position Description

  • Work actively on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in Sociology.

  • Research focus: how student mental health and academic performance are intertwined, and how this relationship is influenced by social inequalities throughout the university trajectory.

  • Contribute to the launch of a longitudinal student panel at the University of Antwerp, integrating repeated survey data with administrative records.

  • Publish scientific articles related to the research project.

  • Perform a limited number of teaching and research support tasks for the Department of Sociology.


Profile

  • Master’s degree in Social Sciences (e.g., Sociology, Psychology, Educational Sciences) or completion by start date (graduation by September 2026 at the latest).

  • Excellent study results.

  • Solid foundation in advanced quantitative research methods; motivation to develop methodological expertise throughout the PhD.

  • Highly organized and able to manage project-related tasks meticulously.

  • Strong team player with excellent collaboration skills.

  • Proficient in Dutch and English, with strong writing skills.

  • Teaching competencies aligned with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.

  • Research qualities in line with faculty and university research policies.

  • Acts with attention to quality, integrity, creativity, and cooperation.


What We Offer

  • Doctoral scholarship for one year, renewable for up to three additional years after positive evaluation.

  • Monthly scholarship amount in accordance with doctoral scholarship standards.

  • Eco cheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs.

  • Access to a wide range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.

  • Work primarily at the City Campus in a dynamic and stimulating environment.

  • Opportunity to contribute to an innovative longitudinal research project.


How to Apply

  • Apply via the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform.

  • Include the following attachments:

    1. Motivation letter, including grades for all completed methods and statistics courses

    2. Academic CV

  • Selection committee will review applications after the deadline. Pre-selected candidates will be invited for interviews on 4 May 2026.

  • Questions about the application form: jobs@uantwerpen.be

  • Questions about the position: