PhD Position in Middle Dutch Literature, Codicology, and Digital Humanities at Ghent University and Leiden University

Ghent University, in collaboration with Leiden University, is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position in Middle Dutch literature, codicology, and digital humanities. The successful candidate will join the FWO project "The origin of the Bible in Dutch," focusing on the earliest Middle Dutch translations of biblical texts (1200–1350), with a special emphasis on the oldest Middle Dutch translation of the Apocalypse. The research will involve studying textual witnesses, building a database, and situating the texts within broader cultural, linguistic, and international contexts. The project is embedded in a vibrant interdisciplinary network, including the Henri Pirenne Institute for Medieval Studies (HPIMS), GEMS, the Medieval and Early Modern Studies cluster at LUCAS (Leiden University Centre for Arts in Society), and the Ghent Centre for Digital Humanities. The research team is also connected to the COST Action Prayticipate. The PhD candidate will benefit from a dynamic, international research environment and will be part of a joint PhD program with Leiden University. Key responsibilities include contributing to the setup and analysis of a database of early Middle Dutch biblical translations, conducting research on the oldest Middle Dutch Apocalypse translation, presenting findings at conferences, organizing academic events, and writing peer-reviewed articles and a dissertation. Occasional teaching support within the Department of Literature at Ghent University may be required. Applicants must have a (Research) Master's degree in (Dutch) linguistics and literature, book history, cultural studies, digital humanities, religious studies, or a related field, with demonstrable knowledge of codicology and Middle Dutch. Strong research, analytical, and writing skills are essential. Candidates should be willing to travel, spend up to 6 months at Leiden University, and possess excellent English proficiency and reading skills in French and German. Experience with paleography and digital humanities is desirable, and knowledge of late medieval religious culture is a plus. The position offers a full-time doctoral scholarship for up to 48 months, with an initial 12-month contract extendable upon positive evaluation. The scholarship is tax-free, includes full social coverage, 36 days of paid leave, and various training opportunities. The application deadline is March 31, 2026. For more information, contact Prof. dr. Youri Desplenter ([email protected]) or Dr. Anna Dlabačová ([email protected]).