The Centre for Security, Diplomacy and Strategy (CSDS) at Vrije Universiteit Brussel is inviting applications for one postdoctoral and one doctoral position as part of the project, “The Weaponisation of Ideas: US–China Competition in the Symbolic Field.” This research opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in political science, international relations, and the dynamics of symbolic politics between major global powers. The project explores how ideas are weaponised in the context of US–China competition, focusing on the symbolic field and its implications for international relations. Successful candidates will join a vibrant academic environment at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, working under the supervision of Professor Caterina Carta. The positions offer the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research on global power dynamics and the role of ideas in shaping international affairs. Applicants for the PhD position should hold a completed master's degree in political science, international relations, or a related discipline. The postdoctoral position requires a completed PhD in a relevant field. Strong analytical skills and a keen interest in US–China relations and symbolic politics are essential. For detailed requirements and application instructions, please consult the official job postings linked below. Funding details, including salary and benefits, are not specified in the announcement and should be reviewed in the official job descriptions. The application process is managed through the Vrije Universiteit Brussel job portal, where candidates can find further information and submit their applications. For more information and to apply, visit the following links: Postdoctoral Position PhD Position Join CSDS at Vrije Universiteit Brussel and contribute to impactful research on the weaponisation of ideas in international politics.

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].