PhD position on ‘The affective and discursive governance of Teach for All’ at KU Leuven Kulak KU Leuven in Belgium

The Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences at KU Leuven Kulak, in collaboration with the Centre for Innovation and the Development of Teacher and School (CIDTS), is offering a four-year, full-time PhD position focused on the affective and discursive governance of Teach for All. This doctoral project investigates the transnational diffusion of policy ideas in teacher education, using Teach for All as a case study to explore how education policies travel across time and space. The research will examine how Teach for All mobilizes affective dimensions—such as hopes, fears, and aspirations—and particular orientations to teaching that influence support, promotion, or resistance to specific policies.

The project combines theory development with qualitative fieldwork in both Belgian and French contexts. Candidates are expected to demonstrate theoretical curiosity, methodological rigor, and the ability to build and sustain research relationships in ethically sensitive and persistent ways. The empirical work will require proficiency in English (C1), and a good working knowledge of Dutch and/or French (minimum B1) is considered a strong asset. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in educational sciences or a related field, such as sociology, and show high motivation for engaging with this research topic.

As a doctoral researcher, you will be based at KU Leuven Kulak in Kortrijk, Belgium, joining a small-scale yet internationally oriented academic community. The supervisory team includes Dr. Eline Vanassche (KU Leuven Kulak) and Dr. Mathias Decuypere (PH Zurich), providing opportunities to engage with diverse research groups and academic cultures. You will benefit from their respective research environments, including seminars and doctoral guidance structures.

The position offers a full-time appointment initially for one year, with the possibility of extension up to four years following positive evaluation. The fellowship is a non-taxable scholarship, and KU Leuven provides a range of employee benefits, such as flexible working arrangements, hospitalisation insurance, eco vouchers, reimbursement of commuting costs by public transport, affordable on-campus meals, and access to a bicycle programme. The starting date is as soon as possible.

Applicants should have a strong interest in the international and transnational dimensions of education, a clear affinity with qualitative research, and excellent written and oral communication skills in English. Intellectual curiosity, proactive engagement, and persistence in fieldwork are essential. The application process requires submission of a detailed CV, records of completed and current study programmes, a motivation letter (including a paragraph on conducting research in transnational and multilinguistic contexts), a writing sample, and contact details of two referees. Selection interviews will take place in Kortrijk, and shortlisted candidates will be asked to prepare a short presentation.

KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity as an asset and ensuring equal opportunity for all. For questions about the project, contact Dr. Eline Vanassche ([email protected]) or Dr. Mathias Decuypere ([email protected]).