PhD Position: Cross-linguistic Investigation of Preschoolers’ Transcoding Development and Underlying Mechanisms KU Leuven in Belgium

This PhD position is part of a collaborative project between KU Leuven and UCLouvain, focusing on the cross-linguistic investigation of preschoolers’ development of transcoding and its underlying mechanisms. The research is situated within the labs of Prof. Dr. Bert De Smedt (KU Leuven) and Prof. Dr. Marie-Pascale Noël (UCLouvain), both renowned for their expertise in cognitive development, numerical cognition, and mathematics achievement. The project leverages a strong international network and offers excellent supervision and research facilities at both institutions.

Transcoding, the ability to convert between symbolic codes such as number words and Arabic numerals, is a critical skill in early mathematical development. This project aims to systematically examine the roots and mechanisms of transcoding in preschoolers, adopting a cross-linguistic perspective by comparing Dutch- and French-speaking children within Belgium. The research will address four main objectives: charting the developmental trajectory of transcoding, investigating whether transcoding relies on semantic or procedural routes, exploring linguistic and cognitive underpinnings, and disentangling maturational versus educational influences using a school cut-off design.

The study will follow two cohorts from Flanders and Wallonia longitudinally, employing tasks related to transcoding, magnitude comparison, vocabulary, syntax, working memory, and procedural learning. The findings are expected to provide novel insights into numerical cognition, inform theoretical models, and clarify the impact of language structure on early mathematical achievement.

Applicants should hold or be completing a master’s degree in Psychology, Educational Sciences, Speech and Language Pathology, or a related discipline. Essential qualifications include a strong interest in cognitive development, experience with experimental research, excellent statistical and academic English skills, organizational abilities, and strong communication skills. Basic knowledge of Dutch and French is advantageous but not required.

The position offers a full-time doctoral fellowship for one year, with the possibility of extension up to four years based on performance. The successful candidate will spend two years at KU Leuven and two years at UCLouvain, participating in the doctoral programs of both institutions and receiving dual degrees upon completion. The project is an excellent opportunity for early career researchers seeking to advance their expertise in cognitive development and numerical cognition.

Applications are accepted until June 15, 2026. Interviews will be held on June 30, and the final decision will be made before July 10, 2026. Applicants should submit their CV, motivation letter, and names of two referees via the online application portal. The interview process includes a short presentation and a written commentary on a journal article related to the project. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Bert De Smedt ([email protected]) or Prof. Dr. Marie-Pascale Noël ([email protected]).

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