This fully funded PhD position at Leiden University is part of the ERC Starting Grant project LangPro, which investigates the language sector in early modern North-West Europe, focusing on professional, financial, and social opportunities for men and women with language skills between 1550 and 1650. The successful candidate will specifically research women in the early modern language sector, analyzing biographical data, personal writings, and correspondence of female language professionals from England, the Low Countries, France, and the German lands. The project aims to uncover patterns in language skills, employment strategies, and the benefits women gained from language-related work, such as translation and teaching, despite limited access to academic education. The PhD will contribute to a collaborative prosopographical database and work closely with the LangPro team, under the supervision of Dr. Alisa van de Haar and Prof. Nadine Akkerman. Responsibilities include conducting archival research in several European countries, completing a PhD thesis in English within four years, publishing peer-reviewed articles, presenting at conferences, and participating in training and academic events at the Leiden University Centre for the Arts in Society (LUCAS) and other institutes. Applicants must hold a relevant MA or ResMA/MRes with distinction, possess strong research and analytical skills, and demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one of German, French, or Dutch, or be willing to learn. Experience with early modern handwriting and knowledge of Latin are advantageous. International candidates are welcome but must relocate to the Netherlands. The position offers a competitive salary, benefits, and career development opportunities, with a possible tax break for non-Dutch candidates. Applications must be submitted online by 15 February 2026, including a motivation letter, CV, referee contacts, thesis or writing sample, course assessments, and degree certificate. Interviews will be held online in March 2026.