Post-doctoral assistant, Department of Public Health and Primary Care (30308), Ghent University Ghent University in Belgium

Ghent University is recruiting a post-doctoral assistant for the Department of Public Health and Primary Care (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences) in Belgium. This appointment is centred on nursing science and is designed for an experienced researcher who wants to build an independent research line while contributing to teaching and supervision in a strong academic environment.

The role is research-intensive: at least 70% of the appointment is dedicated to research on professional development, leadership, educational innovation, and implementation research to support high-quality, evidence-informed nursing care across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare settings. The successful candidate is expected to develop and conduct an independent research programme, publish in leading international peer-reviewed journals, initiate new projects, and help secure external research funding.

Teaching duties are also an important part of the post. The appointee will contribute to the Master of Science in Nursing and Midwifery, especially the bridging programme and the Nurse Specialist track. Teaching topics include professional development, leadership, quality improvement, healthcare organisation, and evidence-informed practice. The role additionally includes supervising master’s dissertations, supporting curriculum innovation, and counselling doctoral students.

Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in health sciences by the start date. The university seeks candidates with strong research credentials in nursing science, ideally with publications in peer-reviewed journals and/or books and a promising doctoral record. Experience or interest in coaching students at Bachelor’s, Master’s, and/or Advanced Master’s level is valued. For degrees awarded outside the EU, a NARIC certificate of equivalence is required (or proof of having applied for it). The institution notes that foreign diplomas not in Dutch, French, German, or English require translation into one of those languages.

The appointment is temporary for 3 years at 90%, with the possibility of a second 3-year appointment after favourable evaluation. Salary is according to AAP5. Ghent University also highlights standard staff benefits such as training opportunities, paid leave, bicycle commuting reimbursement, and ecocheques.

The application deadline is 29 September 2026 at 23:59 Brussels time. Applications must be submitted online and include a merged PDF of the CV and publication overview, a cover letter, and a diploma transcript; if applicable, include the certificate of equivalence or proof of application. The contact person for the vacancy is Prof. Dimitri Beeckman ([email protected]).