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Leiden University

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PhD Candidate in Ethnographic Anthropology of Seaweed Economization and Blue Economy Strategies in Scotland Leiden University in Netherlands

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Anthropology

Funding

This is a salaried PhD employment contract of 38 hours per week, initially for one year with possible extension for three additional years after a positive evaluation, under the CLA of Dutch Universities. Gross salary is €3,204–€4,051 per month on a full-time appointment. Benefits include 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, ABP pension, reimbursement of public transport commuting costs, leave and flexible working arrangements, hybrid working where possible, home-working allowances, and

Deadline

Nov 7, 2026

Country flag

Country

Netherlands

University

Leiden University

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Keywords

Anthropology
Environmental Science
Sociology
Ethnography
Environmental Sustainability
Political Ecology
Environmental Justice
Environmental Anthropology

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About this position

Leiden University is seeking a PhD candidate for the research project “Entangled with Seaweed: The Politics of Economising Nature in Scotland and South Africa.” The successful candidate will conduct ethnographic research into the impacts of seaweed economisation and blue economy strategies on coastal communities in Scotland.

The project draws on political ecology, valuation studies, environmental anthropology, sustainability research, and the multispecies turn. It examines how seaweed harvesting and cultivation for food, fertiliser, and bioplastic production affect local social relations, colonial legacies, unequal access to coastal areas, and relationships between human and non-human stakeholders. Research methods include historical document and policy analysis, participant observation, interviews, and participatory visual storytelling.

The PhD candidate will develop a research proposal, undertake twelve months of ethnographic fieldwork in Scotland, analyse findings, write a dissertation, and contribute to academic and public dissemination, workshops, seminars, publications, and an exhibition. The candidate will join a collaborative project team at Leiden University working with the University of Edinburgh, the Scottish Association for Marine Science, and Stellenbosch University.

Applicants should hold a Master's degree in anthropology, sociology, environmental humanities, science and technology studies, or a related social sciences or humanities discipline. Excellent qualitative and ethnographic research skills, an interest in sustainability and environmental justice, strong English communication skills, and the ability to work independently and in a team are required. Scots or Scottish Gaelic is an advantage.

The position is based at Leiden University in the Netherlands, with twelve months of research in Scotland. It offers a 38-hour-per-week employment contract, initially for one year with possible three-year extension, and a gross monthly salary of €3,204–€4,051 plus employment benefits. Apply by 7 November 2026.

Funding details

This is a salaried PhD employment contract of 38 hours per week, initially for one year with possible extension for three additional years after a positive evaluation, under the CLA of Dutch Universities. Gross salary is €3,204–€4,051 per month on a full-time appointment. Benefits include 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, ABP pension, reimbursement of public transport commuting costs, leave and flexible working arrangements, hybrid working where possible, home-working allowances, and

What's required

A Master's degree in Anthropology, Sociology, Environmental Humanities, Science and Technology Studies, or another relevant discipline in the social sciences or humanities; demonstrable excellent qualitative research skills and experience with ethnographic fieldwork; affinity with sustainability and environmental justice; excellent oral and written communication skills; strong command of English; knowledge of Scots or Scottish Gaelic is a bonus; excellent social and organisational skills; and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Applicants must submit a motivation letter of up to two pages, a CV of up to two pages, Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates with course and grade lists, a summary of the proposed ethnographic research design in Scotland of up to 500 words, and contact details for two referees.

How to apply

Apply through the vacancy page by clicking “Apply now.” Submit a motivation letter, CV, degree certificates with course and grade lists, a 500-word research-design summary, and contact details for two referees. Applications are processed immediately.

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