PhD Positions in Multimodal Language Processing and Word Learning in Children at KU Leuven KU Leuven in Belgium

KU Leuven is offering full-time PhD positions in the interdisciplinary field of multimodal language processing and word learning in children. The research is based in the Departments of Neuroscience (ExpORL) and Linguistics (MIDI) and focuses on how children with language processing challenges learn new words by integrating verbal and non-verbal cues such as gestures and gaze. The project utilizes eye-tracking and both digital and real-life interactions to investigate how multimodal signals influence attention, word acquisition, and language learning, with a special emphasis on children with language disorders and multilingual children with delayed language exposure.

There are two main PhD positions available:

• Multimodal Attention Processing: This position studies how children divide visual attention between verbal and non-verbal cues during storytelling, using eye-tracking to measure attention allocation and analyzing differences across language profiles and digital contexts.
• Gesture-Speech Integration & Word Learning: This position examines how attention to multimodal signals contributes to word acquisition, exploring repeated exposure pathways, the impact of multimodal signals, and differences in language skills, as well as the effects of digital contexts on learning.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Linguistics, Psychological Sciences, or Speech Therapy Sciences, depending on the position. Fluency in Dutch is required for testing and interaction with children. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in language acquisition, multimodal communication, and experimental research. Experience with eye-tracking, Virtual Reality, or clinical language diagnostics is a plus. Excellent communication, analytical skills, flexibility, and teamwork are essential.

KU Leuven offers a full-time PhD appointment with an initial 1-year contract, extendable up to 4 years, and a competitive salary as a doctoral fellow. The environment is multidisciplinary and collaborative, with limited teaching duties and opportunities for international conferences and professional development.

To apply, candidates should prepare a CV, a motivation letter (maximum 2 pages) explaining their interest in the PhD, the project, and their fit, as well as a research-based writing sample (such as a scientific article or MA thesis). Applications must be submitted via the KU Leuven online application tool by 23 March 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Ellen Rombouts at [email protected].

This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about language development in children, multimodal communication, and experimental research, who are eager to collaborate in an interdisciplinary setting across neuroscience and linguistics.