Institute Coordinator for Leuven Interdisciplinary Language Institute (LILI) KU Leuven in Belgium

The Leuven Interdisciplinary Language Institute (LILI) at KU Leuven is a newly established platform dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research and education around language. LILI unites researchers from KU Leuven's three science groups, aiming to address major societal challenges such as language in hyper-diverse societies, the relationship between language and power, and the use of large language models. The institute also seeks to build a strong impact network with societal actors, fostering knowledge co-creation and responding to practitioner questions.

LILI is recruiting an institute coordinator to work closely with the Board of Directors and steering committee. The coordinator will help set strategic directions, manage organizational activities, increase international visibility, organize networking opportunities, establish new research collaborations, and support the attraction of international research funding. Key responsibilities include facilitating interdisciplinary contacts among members and external partners, organizing lecture series, symposia, and matchmaking events, identifying funding opportunities, supporting project proposals, developing training offers for young researchers (including summer/winter schools and micro-credentials), and stimulating cooperation with social and industrial partners through impact networks and events. The coordinator will also contribute to expanding LILI as a center of expertise that actively engages in public debate on language.

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in a field relevant to LILI’s research priorities, a strong affinity with language research, experience in interdisciplinary research, management skills, and relevant experience with the described tasks. Excellent communication skills and the ability to build an international network with academic and non-academic partners are essential. Candidates must demonstrate high proficiency in Dutch and English (minimum C1 level for both languages).

The position is offered as a postdoctoral collaborator (scale 44 - doctor-assistant) for a period of 2 years, renewable once for a total of 4 years. A part-time appointment (80%) is negotiable. The role provides a varied and challenging mandate within a dynamic team, with opportunities for growth and increased responsibility. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds.

For more information, visit LILI project page or contact prof. dr. Geert Brône ([email protected]) or prof. dr. Karen Lahousse ([email protected]). Applications must be submitted via the KU Leuven online application tool by 10 August 2026. Interviews will take place on 27 August 2026, either on site or online.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity and open dialogue as essential for ambitious research and education. The university does not accept discrimination of any kind and offers support for accessibility and equal opportunity.