PhD Position in Early Modern Ethnobotanical History of Pacific Islands: Plant Introduction into the Mariana Islands and Its Impacts (16th–20th Century) KU Leuven in Belgium

This PhD position at KU Leuven focuses on the early modern ethnobotanical history of the Pacific Islands, specifically the history of plant introductions into the Mariana Islands from the 16th to the 20th century and their environmental and cultural impacts. The successful candidate will reconstruct the long-term history of plant introductions, elaborate an environmental history of the Mariana Islands, and compare the environmental impacts of different colonial empires (Spanish, German, Japanese, US) on the islands.

The research will utilize a wide range of sources, including oral histories, archival documents, and underutilized materials such as trading and military records. The project is part of the Marie Curie Doctoral Network 'PacificPeopleForest', which brings together an interdisciplinary team of six PhD students to study the impacts of European colonialism on Pacific Island peoples and forests, integrating historical, archaeological, and ecological perspectives. The candidate will work closely with other PhD students in the consortium and the Crossroads Research Centre, participate in international workshops and fieldwork (including in European archives and the Northern Mariana Islands), and contribute to a project database.

The position offers a 3-year contract (1-year initial, renewable for 2 more years upon positive evaluation), starting preferably on February 1, 2026. Applicants should have a Master's degree in History or a related field, with strong skills in ethnobotany, early modern European history, paleography, and archival research.

Excellent English is required, along with strong Spanish, Dutch (or German), and ideally French reading skills. Basic IT and GIS skills are recommended. The position is fully funded under the Marie Curie Doctoral Network, with salary and research support. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity.

Applications are submitted online, with interviews scheduled for early December 2025.