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About the Doctoral Fellow Opportunity at Ghent University
Ghent University invites applications from outstanding early-career scholars for a prestigious full-time PhD fellowship within its Department of Political Sciences. Are you passionate about voter behavior, democratic representation, and the social psychology of politics? Do you aspire to become a leading researcher in political science? This is your chance to join one of Europe’s top research institutions and make a meaningful contribution to political science through the IdeoPos project.
Eligible Fields
This doctoral opportunity is ideal for candidates with an academic background in the following disciplines:
- Political Science
- Political Psychology
- Sociology
- Public Administration
- Other related disciplines in Human and Social Sciences
Applicants should be able to demonstrate clear research interest in political behavior, ideological perception, and socio-demographic analysis.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this opportunity, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification: A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in one of the eligible fields listed above.
- Research Potential: Demonstrated interest in or exposure to academic research; preferably with a strong academic record and experience in designing or executing research studies.
- Language Proficiency: Proficient in English and Dutch, or willing to improve proficiency in both within a short period.
- Analytical Skills: Basic understanding of experimental research methods and statistical analysis, or willingness to acquire such skills.
- Project Commitment: Willingness to conduct independent doctoral research, write a PhD dissertation, and complete a doctoral training program.
- Team Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively as part of the GASPAR research group and take on research-related responsibilities.
- Scholarly Engagement: Commitment to presenting research at international conferences and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Academic Excellence: Previous academic results and any research or thesis-related work.
- Research Proposal: Clarity, originality, and feasibility of the 1-page proposal on the IdeoPos topic.
- Motivation and Fit: Strength of the motivation letter and alignment with the IdeoPos project.
- Methodological Readiness: Familiarity with or openness to learning experimental and quantitative methods.
- Communication Skills: Proficiency in academic writing and clear communication, particularly in English and Dutch.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview during the last two weeks of August 2025.
Eligible Countries
This fellowship is open to applicants of all nationalities, although strong candidates with working knowledge of Dutch will be particularly considered, given the research context.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents in a single PDF file:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Highlighting academic background, research experience, skills, and contact information.
- Copy of Diploma – Master’s certificate or an official statement confirming graduation by June 2025 (if applicable).
- Motivation Letter – Explaining why you want to pursue this PhD and your interest in the IdeoPos project.
- Research Proposal (1 page) – Briefly outlining how you would approach the project’s central question on voter perception and ideological cues.
All applications must be sent via email to wauters@ugent.be by July 11, 2025 (midnight, local time).
Late or incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Benefits of the Doctoral Fellow Opportunity at Ghent University
By joining Ghent University as a PhD fellow, you gain access to a comprehensive suite of academic and professional benefits:
- Fully Funded Position: The fellowship covers 100% of the net salary for an Academic Assistant Personnel (AAP) member, tax-exempt under doctoral fellowship rules. The exact salary depends on your family status and seniority.
- Long-Term Support: Initial appointment for 12 months, renewable up to 48 months upon satisfactory evaluation.
- High-Quality Supervision: Close mentorship by leading political scientists Prof. Dr. Bram Wauters and Dr. Robin Devroe.
- Research Environment: Join the vibrant GASPAR research group and collaborate with international scholars in a world-class academic setting.
- Academic Growth: Opportunity to present your work internationally, publish in top journals, and participate in doctoral schools and training programs.
- Work-Life Balance: 36 annual vacation days plus bridge days, eco vouchers, and a bicycle allowance.
- Start Date: October 1, 2025, or soon thereafter.
How to Apply
Follow these steps carefully to apply for the doctoral fellow position:
- Prepare All Documents:
- CV
- Master’s diploma or graduation confirmation (if available)
- Motivation letter
- One-page research proposal
- Combine all documents into a single PDF file.
- Email the PDF to: wauters@ugent.be
- Subject Line: Application for Doctoral Fellowship – IdeoPos Project
- Deadline: July 11, 2025 (by midnight CET).
Late submissions will not be accepted.
For questions or additional details about the project, research scope, or application process, reach out to:
- Prof. Bram Wauters – wauters@ugent.be
- Dr. Robin Devroe – robin.devroe@vub.be
Final Thoughts
This is a rare and prestigious opportunity to embark on a fully funded PhD journey in a thriving academic community. If you’re intellectually curious, committed to rigorous research, and passionate about exploring how social cues influence political judgment, then this is your call to action.
Ghent University’s doctoral fellowship on ideological stereotypes in politics will not only allow you to make a valuable scholarly contribution, but also sharpen your research profile and academic skills for a competitive future in academia or policy.
Apply now and become a part of a pioneering project that explores the intersection of identity, perception, and democracy.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
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