Elfi Baillien
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PhD researcher in Work and Organisation Studies (WOS) KU Leuven in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Sociology
Funding
Available
Deadline
Sep 14, 2026
Country
Belgium
University
KU Leuven
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About this position
KU Leuven is offering a full-time PhD position in the Department of Work and Organisation Studies (WOS), based at the Brussels Campus in Belgium. The project sits within the Faculty of Economics and Business and focuses on how personal, interpersonal, job, team and organisational resources can protect employees from exposure to workplace interpersonal mistreatment, including bullying, aggression, sexual harassment and incivility.
The research is theory-driven and builds on Conservation of Resources (COR) theory and the idea of resource caravan passageways. It aims to understand which resources may prevent initial exposure to mistreatment and reduce persistence or escalation over time. The work is primarily quantitative, using advanced person-centred and longitudinal methods, with longitudinal data already available. There is also potential to use existing Dutch-language qualitative data and to collect additional data if needed.
As a PhD researcher, you will develop research questions with the team, analyse data, publish findings in peer-reviewed journals, contribute to dissertation chapters, present at conferences, and participate in wider research networks and seminars. You will also complete the doctoral programme of the Faculty of Economics and Business, choosing substantive and methodological courses in consultation with your supervisor. Teaching support, supervision of theses, and assessment activities are also part of the role.
The successful candidate should have a master’s degree in Psychology, Business Economics, Business Engineering or a closely related behavioural or social science field, preferably with experience or interest in work, organisations, HRM or organisational behaviour. Strong academic performance is expected, along with an excellent command of English. Interest in quantitative methods and advanced longitudinal/person-centred analysis is important; knowledge of Dutch is an advantage.
The position is a four-year doctoral scholarship holder appointment, with a start possible from 1 November 2026 subject to approval by the Faculty Doctoral Committee. You will join the research team of Prof. Elfi Baillien and be co-supervised by Prof. Guy Notelaers of the University of Bergen. Interested candidates should apply through the KU Leuven job portal before the deadline.
Funding details
Available
What's required
Applicants must hold a master’s degree in Psychology, Business Economics, Business Engineering or a closely related behavioural or social science discipline, preferably with a focus on work, organisations, HRM or organisational behaviour. Strong academic results are required, including a distinction or international equivalent on at least two occasions during higher education. Candidates should have a strong interest in theory-driven research on work, organisations and employee well-being, an interest in quantitative research methods, and motivation to develop expertise in advanced longitudinal and person-centred analytical methods; prior experience with these methods is an asset but not required. Strong analytical skills, accuracy, critical thinking, scientific rigour, clear communication, academic writing and presentation skills are expected. Excellent spoken and written English is required; knowledge of Dutch is an asset. Applicants should be able to work collaboratively and independently.
How to apply
Apply via the KU Leuven application link. Contact Prof. dr. Elfi Baillien for more information if needed. Ensure your application is submitted by the deadline.
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