Doctoral Fellow in Environmental Humanities and Literary Studies Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University is offering a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Literary Studies, focusing on the intersection of environmental humanities and literary analysis. The successful candidate will prepare a doctoral dissertation under the supervision of Professors Marco Caracciolo, Stef Craps, and Elly McCausland.

Applicants are invited to propose their own research project, which should be firmly situated within the environmental humanities and combine theoretical exploration with textual analysis. The supervisory team’s expertise covers narrative theory and narratology (especially in ecological and environmental contexts), memory and affect studies (with attention to cultural narratives of crisis, loss, and transformation), children’s and young adult literature (including themes of risk, trust, imagination, and the environment), and ecocriticism with openness to decolonial, interdisciplinary, and cross-cultural perspectives. Projects that creatively bridge these domains are especially encouraged.

The position includes participation in Ghent University’s Doctoral School training programme. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in English Literature, Literary Studies, Comparative Literature, or a related field, or be near completion. A strong academic record and research experience in relevant areas are required, as are excellent English writing and speaking skills. The fellowship starts on 1 February 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter, with an initial one-year appointment extendable for three more years upon positive evaluation.

The scholarship covers 100% of the net salary of an AAP staff member, with the exact amount determined by HR based on family status and seniority, and is exempt from personal income tax. Additional financial support is available for conference and workshop attendance. Staff benefits include extensive training, professional development, 36 days of annual leave, fixed bridge days, a bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

The project is funded by Ghent University’s Special Research Fund (BOF). Applications must be submitted in English as a single PDF including a cover letter, research proposal, CV, transcripts, writing sample, and contact details of two referees.

The application should be emailed to all three supervisors by 15 November 2025.