PhD Researcher in Scientific Integrity at KU Leuven KU Leuven in Belgium

The Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law at KU Leuven is seeking a motivated PhD researcher to investigate scientific integrity within the context of biomedical sciences and healthcare. This interdisciplinary research group analyzes ethical, legal, and societal questions related to biomedicine, collaborating with KU Leuven, UZ Leuven, and a range of external partners including healthcare providers, patient organizations, and policymakers at national and international levels.

The project explores the institutionalization of research integrity, moving beyond individual ethics to compliance-driven models enforced through mandatory training, revised hiring and promotion criteria, and dedicated integrity officers. The research will critically examine whether this shift supports the development of integrity and benefits science, focusing on the limitations of rules and regulations in preventing scientific misconduct. Emphasis will be placed on strengthening individual ethics and fostering a complex, intangible 'culture of integrity.' Insights will be translated into a compliance model for research integrity, aiming to draw normative conclusions for science policy and address unintended consequences of institutionalization, such as increased administrative workload and ambivalent attitudes toward integrity.

The successful candidate will conduct literature reviews, qualitative and quantitative surveys, and participate in the design, implementation, and reporting of research results in scientific publications. The position is aimed at obtaining a PhD and involves collaboration with other doctoral candidates and colleagues within the research team, as well as external partners to develop broadly supported solutions and recommendations. The candidate will also co-supervise master's students, contribute to collective activities such as teaching, lab meetings, and research proposals, and follow the 'Patient-related and Public Health Research' program of the doctoral school in Biomedical Sciences.

Applicants should hold a master's degree in bioethics, philosophy, theology, medicine, economics, social sciences, psychology, or a related field. Strong organizational skills, independence, excellent social and written communication skills in English (Dutch proficiency is a plus), didactic abilities, and experience or interest in social science methods are required. Candidates must not have previously held a doctoral bursary status and should be committed to a four-year research project within an internationally leading, multidisciplinary team.

The position offers a full-time contract for one year, renewable annually up to four years upon positive evaluation. Research will be conducted at the Centre for Biomedical Ethics and Law, KU Leuven. The start date will be determined in consultation with the candidate, with the aim to begin by December 1, 2026. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.

For more information, contact Prof. Dr. Kris Dierickx at [email protected]. Apply online via the KU Leuven job portal before July 31, 2026.