Leiden University’s Faculty of Humanities (LUCAS) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position as part of the ERC Starting Grant project LangPro, focusing on "Women in the Early Modern Language Sector." The project, led by dr. Alisa van de Haar with Prof. Nadine Akkerman as co-supervisor, investigates the professional opportunities for women in the language sector of North-West Europe (1550–1650), including the Low Countries, France, German lands, and England. Research will center on female translators, language teachers, editors, and writers, analyzing biographical data, correspondence, and personal writings to identify patterns in language skills, employment pathways, and financial and social benefits. The successful candidate will conduct archival and historical research, contribute to a collaborative prosopographical database, publish peer-reviewed articles, present at conferences, and complete a PhD thesis in English within four years. Limited teaching duties may be assigned in years 2–3.

Applicants must have an MA, ResMA, or MRes in history, early modern studies, literature, or languages, with an MA thesis grade of 8.0 or higher (or equivalent). Strong analytical, research, and writing skills, full professional proficiency in English, willingness to spend up to four months in international archives, and an interest in gender studies and the language sector are required. The position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881, holiday allowance (8%), end-of-year bonus (8.3%), and possible tax benefits for international staff. The contract is full-time for four years (or 0.8 FTE for five years), starting 1 August 2026.

Applications must be submitted online by 15 February 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, academic CV, MA thesis or writing sample, grade lists and language certificates, MA degree certificate (or supervisor contact if pending), and names and contact details of two referees. Interviews will be held in the first half of March 2026, either online or in person. For more information, contact dr. Alisa van de Haar at [email protected].