Growing On and Off the Field: Leadership Development and Identity Formation in Youth Athletes through the LEADIFY Program

This PhD position at KU Leuven focuses on leadership development and identity formation in youth athletes through the LEADIFY program. The project is embedded within the Department of Movement Sciences, renowned for its expertise in leadership, sport psychology, and youth development. The research vision emphasizes shared leadership, moving beyond traditional models where only the coach or captain is seen as the leader. Instead, the project investigates how various leadership roles—task, motivational, social, and external—are distributed among players and how this distribution impacts team functioning, performance, and well-being. Building on the successful 5R Shared Leadership Program (5RS), which has improved team dynamics and performance in adult sport teams, the LEADIFY project aims to adapt and develop leadership programs specifically for youth sport teams. Young athletes are at a critical stage of personal and athletic development, and sport teams offer a unique context for cultivating leadership skills that benefit their sporting careers and broader life trajectories. The project seeks to answer key questions about which leadership roles are essential for youth, who assumes these roles, and how they contribute to performance, well-being, and personal growth. As a PhD student, you will play a central role in this research, employing both qualitative and quantitative methods, organizing studies, recruiting and following up with participants, supervising interventions, analyzing data, and publishing scientific articles. You will also contribute to the translation of research findings into practice, supported by the expertise centre Leading Insights, through infographics, practice-oriented articles, and coaching sessions. The position includes supervising master's theses and assisting with teaching assignments within the department. KU Leuven offers a stimulating environment with a strong focus on both research excellence and societal impact. The position is full-time for one year, renewable up to four years, with the expectation of completing a doctoral dissertation. Funding covers salary and research expenses, and renewal is subject to positive evaluation. The start date is flexible, but must be no later than September 2026. The university values diversity and inclusivity, providing support for accessibility and equal opportunity. Applicants should have a Master's degree in Movement Sciences, Psychology, Rehabilitation Sciences, Educational Sciences, or a related field, with excellent academic results. Experience in youth sport or coaching is an asset, as is knowledge of advanced statistical analysis. Strong communication skills in English (and preferably Dutch), organizational abilities, independence, and reliability are essential. Master's students in their final year are also encouraged to apply. For further information, contact Prof. Katrien Fransen at [email protected]. Applications should include a motivation letter, CV, diplomas, and grades, submitted via the KU Leuven job portal. Interviews will be held from 22–24 April 2026.