Leiden University invites applications for a fully funded PhD position within the ERC Starting Grant project LangPro: 'Societies and Guilds in the Language Industry'. This research opportunity focuses on the professional, financial, and social opportunities available to language professionals in early modern North-West Europe (1550–1650), with a particular emphasis on the role of guilds, societies, and associations in supporting and regulating the language sector. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team led by Dr. Alisa van de Haar (historical French literature) and co-supervised by Professor Nadine Akkerman (early modern literature and culture).

The LangPro project aims to lay the groundwork for a new research domain on the history of the language sector, developing a prosopographical database to illuminate the characteristics and networks of language professionals in the past. The PhD project will involve extensive archival research in the UK, Belgium, Germany, and France, examining the records of guilds and associations related to the language industry. Key research questions include how these organisations verified language proficiency, mediated conflicts, and provided schooling, as well as the regional differences in institutional support and the professions they served (e.g., language teachers, secretaries).

As a PhD candidate, you will be expected to complete a thesis in English within four years, contribute to the collaborative database, publish at least two co-authored articles in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and participate in regular project meetings and training programmes at the Leiden University Centre for the Arts in Society (LUCAS), the Leiden Graduate School of Humanities, and the Huizinga Institute. Some teaching duties may be assigned in the second and third years, depending on progress and expertise.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a ResMA/MRes or MA in history, early modern studies, or languages, with a thesis grade of 8.0 or above (distinction or equivalent). Candidates should demonstrate strong research skills, proficiency in English, and preferably reading proficiency in German, French, and/or Dutch, or a willingness to learn. Experience with early modern handwriting is desirable, and knowledge of Latin is a bonus. International candidates are welcome but must relocate to the Netherlands for the duration of the project.

Funding and Benefits: The position offers a competitive salary (€3,059–€3,881 gross per month for full-time), a 4-year contract (or 5 years at 0.8 FTE), additional holiday and end-of-year bonuses, training and career development opportunities, and a possible substantial tax break for international candidates. Leiden University provides a supportive and inclusive academic environment, with a commitment to diversity and the professional growth of its staff and students.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted online in English via the Leiden University recruitment system by 15 February 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter (max 1000 words), CV, contact information for two referees, MA thesis or writing sample, course assessments, and MA degree certificate or supervisor contact details if the thesis is pending. Online interviews will be held in March 2026. For project-related enquiries, contact Dr. Alisa van de Haar ([email protected]); for procedural questions, contact J. Dijkman ([email protected]).

For more information about the project, the LUCAS Institute, and Leiden University, visit the provided links. Join a vibrant international research community and contribute to pioneering scholarship on the history of the language sector in early modern Europe.