Postdoctoral Researcher in Labour Market Policy Impact Evaluation
Ghent University invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position in the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Department EB21 - Economie. This opportunity is part of a collaborative research project funded by the Belgian Science Administration (BELSPO) under the “Science for Policy” initiative, in partnership with several federal administrations, including the Social Security administration. The project, titled “Data Management and Impact Evaluations to Inform Policymaking on the Labour Market integration of Precarious Groups,” is coordinated by a consortium of three universities and led by Prof. Bart Cockx (Ghent University), Sofie Cabus (KULeuven), and Ilan Tojerow (Université Libre de Bruxelles).
The successful candidate will play a central role in developing a comprehensive toolkit for conducting causal ex-post impact evaluations tailored to Belgium’s institutional context and data infrastructure. The toolkit aims to empower Belgian federal administrations, especially the Social Security Administration, to evaluate labour market policies for precarious groups, with a particular focus on policies promoting the integration of workers with disabilities. The toolkit will support both in-house evaluations and the commissioning of high-quality external evaluations.
In addition to leading toolkit development, the postdoc will contribute to training sessions for civil servants, equipping them with practical skills in impact evaluation. There may also be opportunities for teaching, notably a micro-econometrics course for third-year bachelor students. The researcher will support the promotors of a PhD student hired within the project, assisting with case studies that demonstrate the toolkit’s application in evaluating policies for individuals with disabilities. Candidates are encouraged to pursue their own research agenda alongside these tasks.
Applicants must hold a PhD in Economics and demonstrate expertise in micro-econometric causal inference methods, including randomized controlled trials, regression discontinuity designs, difference-in-differences, matching and weighting methods, and instrumental variable techniques. Proficiency in English and good command of Dutch and/or French are required. Experience or strong interest in working with policymakers and civil servants in the design and implementation of causal evaluations is expected. Excellent teaching skills, interest in supervising PhD students, and a strong interest in empirical evaluation of public policies—especially in areas such as work disability or sickness—are important. Familiarity with the Belgian institutional context and Social Security system is an asset, and a clear vision for future research is advantageous.
The position is offered as a contract of definite duration for one year, extendable by one more year. Remuneration is determined by salary scale PD1, and Ghent University staff enjoy a range of benefits, including training opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. The contract will start between 1 April 2026 and 1 October 2026.
Applications must be submitted online via the Ghent University e-recruitment system before the deadline of 9 March 2026. Required documents include a CV and academic transcript (merged as one PDF), cover letter, diploma transcript, doctoral dissertation or preliminary papers, and contact details of three referees. Late or email applications will not be considered. For further information, contact Prof. Bart Cockx ([email protected]). Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, and all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
