PhD Position in Early Modern Ethnobotanical History of Pacific Islands: Plant Introduction into the Mariana Islands and Its Impacts KU Leuven in Belgium

This PhD position at KU Leuven, within the Department of Early Modern History, focuses on reconstructing the long-term history of plant introductions into the Northern Mariana Islands from the early colonial period to the present. The successful candidate will elaborate an environmental history of the Mariana Islands, emphasizing plant introductions from the 16th to the 20th century, utilizing oral history and a wide range of documentary sources.

The research will compare the environmental impacts of different colonial empires—Spanish, German, Japanese, and US—on the islands, contributing to the ecological study of Pacific vegetation through historical analysis. The project is part of the international PacificPeopleForest consortium, which integrates historical, archaeological, and ecological perspectives to understand the interplay between human populations and forest dynamics in the Pacific Islands before and after European contact. The candidate will collaborate closely with five other PhD students and participate in international workshops, archival fieldwork, and team activities.

The position offers a 3-year contract (1-year initial, extendable by 2 years upon positive evaluation) funded by a Marie Curie Doctoral Network (Horizon Europe - MSCA). The candidate will conduct fieldwork in European archives and the Northern Mariana Islands, visit European partners, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and present at conferences.

Applicants must have a Master's degree in History or a related field, with a strong background in ethnobotany, early modern European history, paleography, and archival research. Excellent English, very good Spanish and Dutch (or German), and ideally basic French are required. IT and GIS skills are recommended.

The position starts on February 1, 2026. Applications must be submitted online with a CV, diplomas, and two reference letters.

For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Angela Schottenhammer. Interviews will be held online in December 2025.