The Leuven International and European Studies (LINES) research unit at KU Leuven, in collaboration with the Jean Monnet Centre for EU External Action in a World in Transition (EU ExAct), invites applications for a postdoctoral position as Doctor-assistent in International and European Studies. LINES is a vibrant, internationally oriented research group within the Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences at KU Leuven. The group is dedicated to innovative and societally relevant fundamental research on European and international politics and governance, drawing strength from the diversity of its members’ research foci and methodologies. LINES focuses on European political processes, Europe’s relations with the world, and external perceptions of Europe, with research spanning regions such as Africa, the Balkans, the US, China, and international organizations.

EU ExAct is committed to understanding the evolving landscape of EU external action in today’s rapidly changing world. The center aims to develop new theoretical approaches and empirical research to grasp the complexity of EU external action, including the rise of geopolitics, European strategic autonomy, EU diplomacy (especially parliamentary diplomacy), institutional adaptation to external challenges, and new forms of bilateral and multilateral cooperation (e.g., BRICS+, East Asia, transatlantic relations).

The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the future research agenda of LINES and EU ExAct, contributing to ongoing research and teaching activities, and actively collaborating with team members to identify and develop competitive research proposals, particularly in response to major funding opportunities such as Horizon Europe. The position emphasizes a collaborative research strategy, integrating diverse themes, methodologies, and international partnerships. The postdoctoral researcher is encouraged to apply for individual research projects (notably with the FWO) and is expected to demonstrate intellectual leadership in aligning research proposals with the group’s agenda while developing their own research trajectory.

Responsibilities include writing research proposals for (inter)national funds, publishing in leading international journals (individually and collaboratively), managing research projects, organizing academic outreach activities (workshops, conferences, practitioner dialogues), and supporting the group’s collective responsibilities (teaching, student supervision, exam oversight, recruitment). The candidate will also mentor junior researchers and PhD students and occasionally contribute to teaching at BA and MA levels in English and/or Dutch.

Applicants must have recently obtained a PhD in political science and/or international relations (after 1 October 2024), with a strong academic record (at least three peer-reviewed publications), research presented at international conferences, and experience with both qualitative and quantitative methods. A proven track record in research grant applications, collaboration, project management, and teaching is essential. Excellent English communication skills (C1/C2) are required, and three academic reference letters must be included.

The position offers a two-year contract (0.8–1.0 FTE) starting around April 1, 2026, with salary and benefits according to KU Leuven postdoctoral staff scales (salary scale 44). KU Leuven provides a stimulating, international environment and a wide range of training opportunities for young researchers. The university is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities. For more information, contact Prof. Dr. Kolja Raube at [email protected]. Apply via the KU Leuven job portal before January 20, 2026.