The Brussels School of Governance at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is offering a fully funded PhD position on the project “The Weaponisation of Ideas: US–China Competition in the Symbolic Field,” supervised by Prof. Caterina Carta. This research opportunity is based at the Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy (CSDS) in Brussels, Belgium, and is funded by the Flemish Research Foundation (FWO).

The project investigates the ideational and symbolic dimensions of US–China rivalry from 2000 to 2024, focusing on how ideological, cultural, and civilizational narratives are mobilized as instruments of power and how they shape adversarial identities. The research employs mixed-methods, including machine-learning–enhanced text analysis and qualitative discourse analysis, to analyze large textual corpora in English and Chinese. Expected outputs include peer-reviewed journal articles, a research monograph, edited volumes, policy publications, and workshops.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, or a closely related discipline, and be fluent in English. A strong interest in great power competition and discourse analysis is essential. Proficiency in Mandarin (especially reading) and experience with qualitative research methods are strong assets. Candidates must not have more than 12 months of prior paid research work as an assistant and must comply with VUB residence and permitting rules for non-EEA nationals.

The position is initially for 12 months, extendable up to 48 months based on positive evaluation. The doctoral grant follows a government-linked scale and includes a comprehensive benefits package: telework allowance or internet fee, 35 days of annual leave plus closure between Christmas and New Year and three extra days, hospitalization insurance, full reimbursement of public transport or cycling compensation, affordable campus meals, sports facilities, discounts, nursery access, and training and career development opportunities.

To apply, candidates should submit a CV, motivation letter, diploma (if not a VUB alumnus), and a doctoral research proposal on topics such as US–China great power competition, ideational, ideological, or cultural narratives, discourse, identity, strategic narratives, or Chinese foreign policy narratives and symbolic power. The application deadline is 15 March 2026. Applications must be submitted via the jobs.vub.be portal. For project-related questions, contact Prof. Caterina Carta at [email protected].