PhD student on Population and Climate Change

Within the Department of Sociology at KU Leuven, the ReSPOND research group studies how demographic changes relate to cultural, economic, and political developments. The team aims to further develop research that analyzes the connection with climate change.
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Project

The Department of Sociology at KU Leuven is recruiting an early-stage researcher to develop a doctoral project at the intersection of society, demography, and climate change. We are also looking for someone strongly motivated to contribute to teaching in this field.

Your tasks:

- Develop and carry out research at the intersection of society, demography, and climate change, with the aim of completing a PhD;

- Contribute to collective responsibilities of the research group (such as educational services, team meetings, research proposals, supervision of bachelor and master students, invigilating exams, student recruitment activities, etc.).

Profile

• Recently graduated with at least distinction as a Master in Sociology or a related social science discipline, or graduating no later than September 2026;
• Good oral and written proficiency in Dutch and English;
• Strong in statistical analysis and comfortable working with large datasets;
• Strong interest in societal issues;
• Solid basic knowledge of demography and strong motivation to further develop in this area;
• Good social skills and teaching abilities, with a strong interest in working with students;
• Willing to contribute to a stimulating intellectual climate within the Department of Sociology and to the research group on social, political, and demographic change 

Offer

• A challenging, engaging, and socially relevant position;
• A full-time position, initially for one year, extendable upon positive evaluation;
• A dynamic and stimulating research environment with excellent facilities;
• Many opportunities for further professional development (e.g., additional courses, international workshops and seminars);
• Fully funded PhD scholarship.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Jan Van Bavel, mail: [email protected].

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.