Post-doc position: Computer Science and Digital Humanities for Archive Digital Valorization Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium

The Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) and the State Archives of Belgium invite applications for a postdoctoral position in computer science and digital humanities, focused on the digital valorization of archive collections. This unique role is part of the FED-tWIN programme, a Belgian Federal Science Policy Office initiative fostering collaboration between federal scientific institutions and universities. The position is split 50% as a postdoctoral researcher at UCLouvain and 50% as a project manager at the State Archives (AGR), with funding secured for 7.5 years.

The ARKEY project aims to develop advanced tools for enhancing access to digitized and digital-born archival content, improving navigation and user experience within archive collections. The project leverages multidisciplinary expertise from AGR and several UCLouvain research groups, including the Media Innovation and Intelligibility Lab (MiiL), the CENTAL center for automatic language processing, the UCLouvain Archives Service, and the GEMCA group for early modern cultural analysis. The work will address three main challenges: AI-aided text and layout recognition (using machine learning, OCR, and handwritten text recognition), content-enriched digital archival representation (applying NLP and semantic modeling to generate metadata), and user-oriented, context-aware navigation (developing search aids and visualization tools).

Applicants must hold a PhD in Computer Science, Digital Archives, Digital Humanities, Natural Language Processing, or a closely related field, obtained within the last 12 years. Essential technical skills include expertise in processing digital documents (text and images), image processing, pattern recognition, layout analysis, OCR, NLP, machine learning (CNNs, RNNs, transformers), programming in Python or similar languages, and experience with machine learning libraries such as PyTorch. Basic knowledge of user experience and user-oriented design is required, with flexibility to deepen these skills. Soft skills include project management, team collaboration, open science practices, and adherence to ethical research standards. Complementary skills in archival science, metadata standards (EAD3, RiC, DCAT, DDI), and systems modeling (OAIS) are considered assets.

Language requirements include basic French for integration, English for communication, and Dutch as an advantage. UCLouvain offers language training if needed. The position offers a 50% open-ended contract at AGR in Brussels (EUR 31,880.00 – EUR 48,350.00 gross non-indexed salary, indexed gross monthly salary approx. EUR 3,100 for part-time) and a 50% open-ended contract at UCLouvain in Louvain-la-Neuve, with salary according to university scales and seniority. The entry into office is scheduled as soon as possible.

To apply, candidates must submit a single PDF file containing a motivation letter, detailed CV with publications, diploma copy, and two recommendation letters by May 10, 2026, via email to [email protected] and [email protected] (reference: FEDTWIN/ARKEY application). Recommendation letter authors should send their letters directly to the supervisors. Selected candidates will be invited for an oral hearing by the Joint Selection Committee in May or June. For further information, contact Antonin Descampe or Johan Van Der Eycken. UCLouvain and AGR are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. For accessibility questions, consult the HR department or visit the provided links.

This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in digital archives, AI, and user experience, with a strong societal impact and interdisciplinary collaboration.