PhD position in Japan Studies (1.0 fte) Leiden University in Netherlands

The Faculty of Humanities at Leiden University is offering a four-year, full-time PhD fellowship in Japan Studies, funded by the Isaac Alfred Ailion Foundation (IAAF). Japan Studies at Leiden encompasses a broad spectrum of social sciences and humanities research on Japan, including language, culture, history, literature, art, music, politics, economy, and science. The position is based at the Leiden Institute for Area Studies (LIAS), which integrates disciplinary and regional-historical perspectives with advanced language proficiency. LIAS faculty expertise covers fields such as Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, Buddhist Studies, Film Studies, History, International Relations, Language Pedagogy, Law, Linguistics, Literary Studies, Material Culture Studies, Performing Arts, Philology, Philosophy, Political Economy, Religious Studies, Sociology, and Visual Culture Studies.

The successful candidate will conduct original research, disseminate results through conferences and journals, undertake relevant coursework, and write a PhD dissertation. Teaching responsibilities may include designing and delivering at least one BA course in the candidate’s area of specialization, with up to 15% of work time devoted to teaching, mainly in years 2-3. Participation in LIAS PhD program activities is expected.

Applicants must hold a BA and/or MA degree from Japan Studies at Leiden University, or a Master’s degree in other disciplines with a Japan specialization. Advanced Japanese language skills (JLPT level 1-2) and excellent English proficiency are required. Candidates should demonstrate strong academic skills, as evidenced by their MA thesis or other substantial written work, and be able to work independently and collaboratively. Only candidates with a proven interest in Japan are eligible, and those nearing completion of their degree may also apply.

The position offers a competitive salary ranging from €3,059 gross per month in the first year to €3,881 in the fourth year (full-time, 38 hours/week), plus holiday allowance (8%), end-of-year bonus (8.3%), and pension scheme at ABP. Additional benefits include full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs, flexible working hours, a minimum of 29 leave days, options for sabbatical or paid parental leave, home-working allowance, and a university-provided laptop. Hybrid working is possible within the Netherlands.

Leiden University values an inclusive academic environment where all students and staff can fully develop their talents. Applications should be submitted in English as a single PDF to the IAAF Secretary ([email protected]), including a letter of motivation, PhD project description (max. 2500 words), summary (max. 250 words), 5 keywords, CV, academic transcripts, writing sample (max. 10,000 words), and names, positions, and emails of two referees. The review of applications begins 15 April 2026 and continues until the position is filled. Applicants will be informed of the outcome by 1 August 2026 at the latest.