Graduate Teaching & Research Assistant in the Law of Obligations (PhD)

The University of Antwerp, a leading European institution, invites applications for a full-time Graduate Teaching & Research Assistant position in the field of the law of obligations. As part of the Faculty of Law, you will join a vibrant academic community dedicated to innovative education and pioneering research. The university is renowned for its international outlook, diverse staff, and commitment to shaping the future through scientific excellence. This position is designed for candidates who wish to pursue a PhD while contributing to teaching and research activities. At least 50% of your working time will be devoted to preparing and defending a PhD thesis in the law of obligations, aligned with the research group Personal Rights & Property Rights. You will organise your own research, participate in the Antwerp Doctoral School, and regularly report on your progress. The role also includes presenting at academic conferences, publishing in scientific journals, and contributing to the acquisition of research funding. In addition to research, you will support and deliver high-quality academic teaching, including legal skills education in the bachelor of laws. You will provide educational support for course units such as Verbintenissenrecht (bachelor of laws, 6 ECTS) and Grondige Studie Verbintenissenrecht (master of laws, 9 ECTS). Your teaching responsibilities will evolve with the study programmes, and you will supervise students and their dissertations at both bachelor and master levels. Service to the faculty and university is an integral part of the role. You will assist in student recruitment, alumni activities, examination supervision, and serve on boards and committees. The University of Antwerp values diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds. Applicants must hold a law degree or a master's degree in law (or obtain it by the start date), submit a PhD proposal (in Dutch or English) of up to 5 pages, and demonstrate excellent study results, particularly in the law of obligations. Adequate knowledge of Dutch and English is required, with fluency in both languages for academic communication. Knowledge of French and/or German is considered an asset. Candidates should possess strong research and teaching competences, organisational skills, self-reliance, and motivation for professional development. The appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal up to a maximum of six years following positive evaluations. The position offers a gross monthly salary according to the academic assistant staff pay scale, ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, and either a bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting. The planned start date is 15 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Most work will be conducted at the City Campus in Antwerp, providing a dynamic and stimulating environment. Applications must be submitted online via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by 9 March 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, research proposal, detailed study results, and academic CV. For questions about the application process, contact [email protected]. For job-specific inquiries, reach out to prof. dr. Britt Weyts at [email protected]. The University of Antwerp is committed to sustainable growth, family-friendly policies, and HR excellence, as recognized by the European Commission. Join a community that values integrity, creativity, cooperation, and quality in academic and societal contributions.