This doctoral fellowship at KU Leuven offers an exciting opportunity for design-driven research in the domain of Interior Architecture. The Department of Architecture, part of the Science and Technology Group, coordinates research across Interior Architecture, Architecture, Urbanism, and Spatial Planning, and is internationally recognized with over 150 PhD students. The successful candidate will join the Material Narratives research group and collaborate with research cells such as Architecture & Wicked Matters and Radical Materiality. The research is framed within a mixed-method approach, with intensive exchange with groups like Architecture, Interiority, Inhabitation (A2I), and Architectural Cultures of the Recent Past (ARP) in the section History, Theory, and Criticism of Architecture. Supervision will be provided by Prof. Johan Liekens and a colleague-professor from the History, Theory, and Criticism section, both active in the Master of Interior Architecture Program. The PhD project should focus on Interior Architecture, require a design-driven approach, and connect to ongoing research lines. Thematic interests include interior architecture as an 'interiorizing' practice, exploring novel senses of 'interiority', and typologies such as 'off-grid' and 'tiny' habitation, as well as 'study' or 'lab' spaces. Two interconnected research lines are central: one develops speculative models of entanglement between interior/human and material landscape/ecology, inspiring new cultures of co-habitation; the other investigates 'retreat' typologies through literature and case studies as cultural techniques balancing contemplative and active life. The position involves starting the doctoral training program at the Arenberg Doctoral School and the Faculty of Architecture, actively participating in funding applications, publishing in academic outlets, presenting at international seminars, contributing to teaching, and engaging in campus services and research-related activities. Applicants must have a master’s degree in Interior Architecture with distinction, be eligible for an FWO-fellowship, and demonstrate excellence through distinctions and a strong portfolio. The appointment is full-time for one year, extendable up to four years with successful external funding and positive evaluations. The net salary matches junior academic staff, with additional benefits such as eco vouchers, bonuses, hospital insurance, and commuting reimbursement. The position is based at the Faculty of Architecture, Sint-Lucas Campus Ghent, with a start date envisioned for April/May 2026. KU Leuven fosters an inclusive, diverse, and supportive environment. Applications are due by November 28, 2025, and should include a cover letter, research statement, CV, and portfolio or sample of work. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in December. For further information, contact Prof. Johan Liekens.