PhD and Research Assistant Positions in Economics (Department EB21) at Ghent University Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University, a leading institution in Belgium, is offering multiple PhD and research assistant positions within the Department of Economics (EB21). The department is renowned for its research and teaching excellence, spanning diverse domains such as Banking & Finance, Environmental Economics, International Economics, Labour Economics and Welfare, Macroeconomics, Policy and Econometrics, Health Economics, and Business Economics. The positions are open to candidates interested in pursuing scientific research leading to a doctoral dissertation, as well as those who wish to contribute to teaching and service activities within the department.

Successful candidates will devote at least 50% of their appointment to research, preparing a doctoral thesis in one of the department’s core domains. The research fellowships are primarily research-oriented, with a limited teaching workload (maximum 10%). Specific research areas include quantitative and empirical macroeconomics, macroeconometrics (statistical properties, bias correction, inference of local projection estimators), international economics (empirical analysis of economic policy impacts on trade and investment), and health economics (health care system reforms). For health economics, familiarity with the Belgian health care system is a significant asset, and this position is primarily aimed at candidates with a strong affinity for the Belgian institutional context. International candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for other research domains.

Applicants must hold a relevant Master of Science degree (Economics, Business Economics, Business Engineering, Business Administration, General Economics, or equivalent), ranking in the top 20% of their cohort. Final-year students graduating in 2025–26 are eligible. An advanced/research master's degree (MaNaMa) in Economics is considered an asset. Candidates without a master's degree from the EEA, Switzerland, or UK must submit GRE or GMAT scores. Diplomas awarded outside the EU require a certificate of equivalence (NARIC). Degree requirements must be fulfilled at the start of appointment. Strong interest in scientific research for a PhD is required. Teaching experience or participation in extra training/conferences is recommended. Excellent didactic and communication skills are expected. Good knowledge of Dutch is recommended for AAP positions.

The AAP positions offer a two-year appointment, renewable twice for two years each, up to a maximum of six years. Research fellowships are four-year appointments. Remuneration is according to salary scale AAP3, with a comprehensive benefits package including paid leave, training opportunities, bicycle commuting reimbursement, ecocheques, and more. The earliest possible starting date for AAP positions is 1 September 2026; research positions may start earlier by agreement.

To apply, candidates must submit their application online via the Ghent University e-recruitment system before the deadline (24 February 2026). Required documents include the completed candidate form, CV, study results, master's thesis overview, cover letter, transcript, and certificate of equivalence (if applicable). Applications not submitted online or after the deadline will not be accepted. Ghent University encourages applications from all backgrounds, maintaining an equal opportunities and diversity policy.

For further information about the vacancy, contact Professor Koen Inghelbrecht at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, consult the FAQ or email [email protected].