Doctoral fellow in Science & Technology Studies and Responsible Innovation for SSbD and PFAS transition Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University is offering a full-time doctoral fellowship in the Department of Political Sciences for a PhD researcher to join the Centre for Sustainability Studies (CDO) and its Imagination & Responsibility in Science & Innovation research line. The project is embedded in PFAROS, a large Horizon Europe initiative funded under the Innovative Health Initiative (2026–2031), which brings together universities, research institutes, civil society organisations, and companies from across the healthcare and waste sectors to support the transition away from PFAS substances in pharmaceutical and medical technology contexts.

The PhD focuses on the Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework and its application to alternative PFAS options in the healthcare sector. The research examines how SSbD is understood, enacted, negotiated, and sometimes contested within a large industry-academia consortium, and how actor reflexivity around SSbD can be broadened. The project is grounded in Science & Technology Studies (STS) and Responsible Innovation (RI), combining critical social science with practical, deadline-driven consortium outputs.

The successful candidate will contribute to a report on recommendations for an SSbD framework towards replacing PFAS and to a training tool designed to broaden SSbD reflexivity. At the same time, there is room to shape an independent theoretical angle and empirical focus, with opportunities to contribute to peer-reviewed publications and a PhD dissertation. The role involves qualitative and interpretative research methods, including interviews, ethnographic observation, facilitated dialogue, workshops, and discourse analysis, in close interaction with project partners and stakeholders.

Applicants should hold or soon obtain a Master’s degree in Science & Technology Studies, sociology, philosophy, anthropology, political science, environmental science, or a related field. Strong English skills are required; Dutch is helpful but not mandatory. The ideal candidate is motivated by critical research and constructive engagement, comfortable working within a complex European consortium, and able to communicate with actors ranging from NGOs to industry R&D teams.

The position starts no earlier than 1 February 2026 and runs initially for 12 months, with the possibility of extension up to a total of 48 months after positive evaluation. The fellowship amount equals 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances, and the grant is described as tax-free under doctoral fellowship regulations. Ghent University also offers staff benefits such as training opportunities, holiday leave, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Applications should be submitted by 1 October 2026 to [email protected], preferably as one combined PDF including a CV with academic results, proof of or confirmation for the Master’s degree, a motivation letter (max. 600 words) including an example of working in a large or complex team, and a writing sample such as a Master’s thesis or relevant essay/article. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in December 2026 in Dutch and English.