PhD Fellowship in Social Work, Psychology, and Migration Studies – Wellbeing and Asylum Procedures at Ghent University Ghent University in Belgium

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Anthropology

Funding

The position is a full-time doctoral fellowship for up to 48 months, with a net salary equivalent to 100% of an AAP member’s salary, determined by family status and seniority. The fellowship is tax-free and includes benefits such as 36 days of holiday, training opportunities, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers. The position is funded by iBOF and Ghent University.

Deadline

Mar 15, 2026

Country

Belgium

University

Ghent University

How do I apply for this?

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Where to contact

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Keywords

Anthropology

Sociology

Psychology

Social Work

Refugee Studies

Wellness

Law

Mental Illness

Linguistics

About this position

Ghent University’s Department of Social Work and Social Pedagogy invites applications for a PhD fellowship within the interdisciplinary UNPACK project, focusing on fairness in asylum procedures and the wellbeing and mental health of refugees. The project integrates perspectives from social work, psychology, linguistics, law, and anthropology, and is coordinated by Professors Ilse Derluyn, Karel Arnaut, Katrijn Maryns, and Ellen Desmet. The research involves mixed-methods approaches to study the experiences of refugees, officials, interpreters, and lawyers, aiming to develop a comprehensive framework for fairness in asylum processes.

The successful candidate will conduct research on mental health and wellbeing in asylum procedures, collaborate with a team of researchers and professors, and share findings both academically and publicly. The position is embedded in CESSMIR (Centre for the Social Study of Migration and Refugees) and offers a stimulating, interdisciplinary environment. The fellowship is fully funded for up to 48 months, with a net salary, tax-free status, and benefits including 36 days of holiday, training opportunities, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in social work, educational sciences, psychology, or a related social science, and demonstrate affinity with refugee or migration issues. High proficiency in Dutch or French (with good knowledge of the other), fluency in academic English, and experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods are required. Knowledge of refugee community languages and experience working with vulnerable populations are assets. The application deadline is 15 March 2026, with a start date around 1 September 2026.

To apply, submit a single PDF containing your CV, study results, motivation letter, diploma copy, and a summary of your Master’s thesis or recent publication to [email protected]. For more information, contact Prof. Ilse Derluyn. Ghent University values diversity and inclusion and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.

Funding details

What's required

Applicants must hold an internationally recognised Master’s degree or equivalent in social work, educational sciences, psychology, or another relevant social science. Candidates should have a demonstrated affinity with refugee or asylum topics, excellent analytical, writing, and presentation skills, and high proficiency in Dutch or French with good knowledge of the other language, as well as fluency in academic English. Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, knowledge of refugee community languages, and experience working with vulnerable populations are considered assets. Applicants should be team players, empathetic, precise, critical thinkers, and able to manage deadlines effectively.

How to apply

Prepare a single PDF containing your CV, study results, motivation letter (max 2 pages), diploma copy (if available), and a 1-page summary of your Master’s thesis or recent publication. Email the PDF to [email protected] with the subject line and file name: 'Surname – First name – PhD in Social Work'. For questions, contact Prof. Ilse Derluyn.