PhD position in Finance KU Leuven in Belgium

The Department of Accounting, Finance & Insurance at KU Leuven invites applications for a PhD position in Finance. This opportunity is ideal for highly motivated candidates interested in pursuing a doctoral degree in Business Economics, with a focus on corporate finance or corporate governance. The PhD project will be closely linked to the supervisors' research agendas, covering both theoretical and empirical aspects of corporate finance. Research topics may include the optimal design of financial contracts and securities, executive compensation, managerial incentives, corporate disclosure and financial reporting (including intangible liabilities and CSR), firm-level effects of financial, labour-market, or environmental regulation, and sustainable finance. Additional areas such as capital structure, payout policy, capital allocation, corporate investment, M&A, and banking are also open for exploration based on candidate interests.

Applicants must have completed a master's degree in business economics, economics, econometrics, finance, business engineering, or a related quantitative discipline (mathematics, statistics, physics, or computer science) by September 2026. Candidates should demonstrate excellent academic qualifications at both bachelor and master levels, genuine enthusiasm for academic research, and a strong ambition to pursue a research career. Proficiency in English is required to communicate effectively within the department. GRE or GMAT scores and/or evidence of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS) are recommended as part of the application.

The position offers a full-time PhD scholarship, starting with an initial 12-month contract, extendable up to four years upon positive evaluation. The individualized doctoral program allows students to devote four years to full-time research, culminating in a doctoral degree. Graduates are well-prepared for academic careers at top universities or research positions in policy institutions. The Department of Accounting, Finance & Insurance provides a dynamic and stimulating environment, and the student will join the Research Group Finance, which has a strong international reputation and is part of a wide network of universities, companies, and institutions.

KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity as an asset. The university does not tolerate discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious or philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. Accessibility and support are available for all applicants.

For more information, contact Prof. dr. Florian Hoffmann ([email protected]) or Prof. dr. Arnt Verriest ([email protected]). Detailed program information and admission requirements can be found at this link. Apply online via the KU Leuven jobsite by submitting your CV, research statement, transcript of university grades, and recommended test scores. The application deadline is June 8, 2026.