PhD Researcher in Social Welfare and Youth Law at KU Leuven Institute for Social Law KU Leuven in Belgium

The Institute for Social Law at KU Leuven is seeking a motivated PhD researcher to join its vibrant team and contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of social welfare law and youth and children's rights law. KU Leuven, located in Belgium, is renowned for its commitment to academic freedom, critical thinking, and personal development. The Institute has a rich tradition of both fundamental and policy-relevant research, employing interdisciplinary and empirical approaches to address pressing legal and social issues.

As a PhD researcher, your primary responsibility will be to conduct original research in social welfare and youth law, with the specific topic to be determined collaboratively to align with your interests and the Institute's research traditions. Potential research areas include the legal position of children with disabilities in light of human rights, among other topics relevant to social law and youth protection. You will also provide limited teaching support, particularly in supervising papers and master's theses, and participate in broader team research activities, including collaboration on research funding applications.

The position offers a full-time fixed-term contract for one year, renewable up to a maximum of four years, as a doctoral fellow. You will work closely with Professors Tim Opgenhaffen and Johan Put, who lead the team and are committed to fostering high-quality legal research with a focus on social relevance and openness to other disciplines. The Institute provides a stimulating and pleasant working environment, emphasizing respect for academic freedom, commitment, critical thinking, and personal development.

Applicants must hold a master's degree in law or be a final-year law student with excellent academic results (cum laude or higher). Proficiency in Dutch, French, and English is required. Ideal candidates will demonstrate a strong interest in research and the subject matter, including its social importance and practical and policy dimensions. The role requires meticulous, systematic, and persistent work habits, self-confidence, openness to constructive criticism, and a collaborative spirit.

KU Leuven is dedicated to creating an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity as an asset and promoting open dialogue and equal opportunity. The university does not tolerate discrimination based on gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status.

The application deadline is March 23, 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the KU Leuven jobsite. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Tim Opgenhaffen or Prof. dr. Johan Put by email. If you encounter any issues with the online application, please email [email protected].