Ghent University invites applications for a Doctoral Fellow position in the Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, as part of the Horizon Europe MSCA Doctoral Network, SUPER (Sustainable Sports and Physical Activity for Equity and Resilience). This pioneering network offers 17 fellowship opportunities at the intersection of sustainability, sports science, and planetary health. The successful candidate will be registered as a fee-free PhD student at Ghent University and will participate in the SUPER Doctoral Network, with secondment opportunities in industry and other European academic institutions.

The research project, 'Physical activity promotion and climate action in aging and warming cities,' focuses on understanding and promoting physical activity among older adults in the context of climate change and urban heat. The doctoral candidate will conduct a literature review supported by AI, examine how physical activity under varying weather and climate conditions affects perceived and objective health (moderated by fitness levels), and evaluate the impact of heat on perceptions of light and moderate physical activity in older adults through lab-based studies. The role includes publishing scientific articles, presenting findings at national and international conferences, contributing to the wider SUPER project, and participating in educational activities within the department and consortium.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Movement sciences, Health promotion, Rehabilitation sciences, or a related field. Eligibility conditions include not already holding a doctoral degree and not having resided or carried out main activity in Belgium for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to recruitment. Excellent English skills and minimum B1 Dutch language proficiency are required to communicate with and collect data from older adult participants. The application must include a research statement, CV, certificates, transcripts and diplomas, proof of language skills, evidence of publications or research work if applicable, and contact information for two referees. If the master's degree is not yet completed, submission date confirmation is required.

The fellowship offers a full-time position, initially for 12 months and extendable up to 48 months after positive evaluation. The fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member, determined by family status and seniority, and is free of personal income tax. Ghent University staff enjoy benefits such as training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. The contract will start on September 1, 2026, at the earliest.

The selection procedure is open, transparent, merit-based, impartial, and equitable, in line with the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. It includes eligibility checks, screening, online interviews, and notification of selection outcome. Interested candidates should send their application to Prof. Greet Cardon ([email protected]) by April 19, 2026. Information sessions will be held on March 23, 2026, to provide further details about the position and the SUPER network.

Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, encouraging all qualified candidates to apply. For more information and to apply, visit the application link provided.