Doctoral Scholarship in Private Family Law at University of Antwerp

The University of Antwerp invites applications for a full-time doctoral scholarship in the broad field of private family law, situated within the Faculty of Law and the Personal Rights and Property Rights research group. This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about legal research and eager to contribute to pioneering work in family law, with a focus on contemporary issues such as gender, family diversity, inheritance law, and the protection of non-conventional families under European fundamental rights. Supervised by Professor Dr. Frederik Swennen and Professor Dr. Elise Goossens, the doctoral candidate will actively prepare and defend a thesis that addresses the broad domain of private family law. Research topics may include: gender(s) and family(ies); comparative analysis between private family law and private economic or public law; family diversity in inheritance law; pluralistic private family law and public order, especially regarding the protection of queer families or singles. Candidates are also welcome to propose their own themes within private family law. Methodological approaches can be socio-legal, interdisciplinary (such as law & literature or the arts), or transdisciplinary, reflecting the university’s commitment to innovative research. The position involves publishing scientific articles, supporting teaching and research activities, and participating in service duties within the Faculty of Law. Applicants must hold a law degree or a master’s degree in law (or obtain it by the start date), demonstrate excellent academic results in private family law, and submit a concise English research proposal (2 pages) covering problem statement, central research question, methodology, and core bibliography. The proposal should have an international or comparative dimension and be feasible for completion within four years. Adequate command of Dutch or English is required for teaching support, with Dutch proficiency preferred; arrangements can be made to acquire basic Dutch if needed. The scholarship is offered for two years, with the possibility of renewal for another two years following a positive evaluation. The monthly scholarship amount is determined by the pay scales for contract research staff (Bijzonder Academisch Personeel, BAP). Additional benefits include ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting. The candidate will work primarily at the City Campus in Antwerp, enjoying a dynamic and inclusive environment that values diversity and equal opportunities. Applications must be submitted online via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by 2 March 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, concise research proposal, detailed study grades, and academic CV. The selection committee will review applications promptly after the deadline, and interviews are scheduled for 19 March 2026. For questions about the application process, contact [email protected]; for job-specific inquiries, reach out to Professor Dr. Frederik Swennen ([email protected]) or Professor Dr. Elise Goossens ([email protected]). The University of Antwerp is recognized for its HR Excellence in Research Award and is committed to sustainability, family-friendliness, and the professional growth of its employees. The institution encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds and characteristics, fostering an inclusive and supportive academic community.