PhD Studentship in Business Economics (Doctoraatsbeurs in Bedrijfseconomie) Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) invites applications for a full-time PhD studentship in Business Economics (Doctoraatsbeurs in Bedrijfseconomie), based at the Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus. VUB is a leading Dutch-speaking university in Brussels, renowned for its commitment to freedom, equality, and diversity, and is a member of the EUTOPIA European university alliance.

This position is offered within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Solvay Business School, in the Applied Economics department. The studentship is designed for candidates preparing a doctoral thesis in business economics, with responsibilities including leading exercise sessions for the course 'Bedrijfseconomie' in the bridging programme for Business Administration, supervising student papers in 'Competition Policy' and 'Mededinging- en mededingingsbeleid' (Master International Business and Master TEW & HIR), and guiding student groups in courses such as 'Research Methods in Economics and Management', 'Bachelor Thesis', and 'Bachelor Paper'. The titular professor for the main course is Prof. dr. Nikolas Vander Vennet, and Prof. dr. Leo Van Hove serves as department chair and contact person.

Applicants must hold a Master's degree in Business Engineering, (Applied) Economic Sciences, or International Business (or equivalent). Prior paid assistantship at a university must not exceed 12 months. Non-EU/EEA candidates must meet legal and residency requirements for VUB. The university is committed to reflecting societal diversity and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.

The studentship is initially for 12 months, with possible extension up to 48 months based on positive evaluation. The stipend is determined by government salary scales. Additional benefits include telework or internet allowance, hospitalisation insurance, reimbursement for public transport or cycling, discounted campus meals, sports and shopping benefits, childcare, and access to professional development platforms. The work environment is open, informal, and supportive of work-life balance, with generous leave arrangements.

To apply, submit your motivation letter, CV, and diplomas (not required for VUB alumni) via the online portal by 22 June 2026. The selection process includes a dossier review and interview. For further information, contact Prof. dr. Leo Van Hove at [email protected]. Discover more about VUB and its European network at jobs.vub.be and eutopia-university.eu.