PhD Position in Linguistic Politics and Colonial History at Leiden University Leiden University in Netherlands

Leiden University’s Faculty of Humanities (LUCAS) is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position on the topic of linguistic politics in early colonial North America. This opportunity is part of the Vidi-funded project “Leveraging Language, Proclaiming Power,” led by dr. Alisa van de Haar with Prof. Michiel van Groesen as co-supervisor. The research explores how language choices shaped power relations among European settlers, Indigenous communities, and enslaved African individuals in the period 1604–1664, focusing on the social and political implications of language use in New France, New Netherland, New England, and Virginia.

The project adopts a comparative approach across French, Dutch, and English colonies, emphasizing the role of interpreters, imposed languages, and multilingual negotiation in shaping authority and social hierarchy. The PhD candidate will conduct archival research in the US and Canada, contribute to collaborative databases, teaching materials, and a museum exhibit, and is expected to publish peer-reviewed articles and present at conferences. Some teaching duties may be assigned in years 2–3.

Applicants should have an MA, ResMA, or MRes in early modern or colonial history, or languages, with a strong academic record (thesis grade 8.0 or higher or equivalent). Full professional proficiency in English and Dutch is required, with proficiency in French considered an advantage. Candidates must be willing to spend up to four months conducting archival research in North America. The position offers a gross monthly salary from €3,089 to €3,881, with a full-time contract for four years (or 0.8 FTE for five years). The application deadline is 15 March 2026, and interviews will be held online in April 2026.

To apply, candidates must submit a motivation letter, academic CV, MA thesis or writing sample, grade lists and language certificates, MA degree certificate (or supervisor contact if pending), and contact details of two referees. For further information, contact dr. Alisa van de Haar at [email protected].