This PhD position is part of the ERC Starting Grant-funded LangPro project at Leiden University, focusing on the role of women in the early modern language sector across North-West Europe (1550–1650). The project investigates the professional, financial, and social opportunities available to linguistically skilled individuals, with a particular emphasis on female language professionals in England, the Low Countries, France, and the German lands. The successful candidate will conduct a collective analysis of biographical data, personal writings, and correspondence to uncover patterns in language skills, employment strategies, and the benefits gained through language work. The research will contribute to a new prosopographical database, laying the foundation for a novel research domain in the history of the language sector.

Supervised by Dr. Alisa van de Haar (historical French literature) and co-supervised by Prof. Nadine Akkerman (early modern literature and culture), the PhD candidate will collaborate with the LangPro team and participate in the intellectual life of the Leiden University Centre for the Arts in Society (LUCAS). Responsibilities include conducting archival research in the UK, Belgium, Germany, and France, completing a PhD thesis in English within four years, contributing to the collaborative database, publishing peer-reviewed articles, presenting at conferences, and engaging in training and academic events. Some teaching may be required in the later years of the project.

Applicants should hold a ResMA/MRes or MA in history, early modern studies, literature, or languages, with a thesis grade of 8.0 or above (distinction or equivalent). Strong research skills, proficiency in English, and reading proficiency in German, French, and/or Dutch (or willingness to learn) are required. Experience with early modern handwriting and knowledge of Latin are advantageous. Candidates must be willing to spend up to four months in archives abroad and relocate to the Netherlands for the duration of the project. International candidates are encouraged to apply.

The position offers a competitive salary (€3,059–€3,881 gross per month for full-time), a four-year contract (or five years at 0.8 FTE), holiday and end-of-year bonuses, training and career development opportunities, and potential tax benefits for international hires. Leiden University provides a vibrant academic environment with a strong focus on languages, cultures, arts, and societies in historical context.

Applications must be submitted via the online recruitment system by 15 February 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, CV, referee contact details, MA thesis or writing sample, course assessments, and degree certificate or supervisor contact information if the thesis is pending. Online interviews will be held in March 2026.