Postdoc Position: Contemporary Arab Thought Radboud University in Netherlands

Radboud University invites applications for a two-year postdoctoral position in Contemporary Arab Thought, embedded within the Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies. This opportunity is ideal for researchers with a focus on the Arab world, offering a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment to explore how shifting Arab politics and societies shape 21st-century intellectual life.

Arab societies have undergone significant transformations over the past decade-and-a-half, from the optimism of the Arab Spring to the ongoing conflicts in Syria, Yemen, Libya, and Gaza. These societal changes are mirrored in intellectual circles, as a new generation of writers, artists, podcasters, journalists, and academics emerges, seeking to break with pre-2011 debates and redefine cultural authenticity and modernity. Disillusionment with Western liberal values and policies has prompted Arabs to search for alternative frameworks for understanding their societies and global position.

The locus of intellectual activity is also shifting, with Gulf states investing in state-sponsored cultural projects and many Arab intellectuals forming global networks, facilitated by modern technologies. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will investigate these developments, focusing on a specific aspect of contemporary Arab thought since 2011. Your research will serve as a lens to examine broader intellectual, political, and social changes in the Arab world. In collaboration with project coordinator Dr Harald Viersen, you are expected to publish at least one peer-reviewed article and prepare a grant application for future research.

The position offers a temporary two-year contract, with a gross monthly salary ranging from €3,546 to €5,538, an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and extra days off. Full-time employees can choose between 30 or 41 days of annual leave. Radboud University provides flexible working hours, a good pension plan, sports and cultural discounts, and opportunities for personal development through training schemes.

You will be part of the Department of Islam, Politics and Society, the Center for Religion and Contemporary Society (CRCS), and the Graduate School of Humanities (GSH). The department is small but active, regularly organizing seminars and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration. The Faculty of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies is committed to addressing major societal challenges through philosophical and religious inquiry, with over 180 staff and more than 1,000 students.

Applicants must hold a PhD in Islamic studies, Arabic, history, philosophy, anthropology, or a related discipline. A demonstrated interest in contemporary Arab thought, strong methodological and theoretical background, excellent command of English and Arabic (written and spoken), and additional relevant languages are required. Candidates should possess excellent research and analytical skills and be able to work independently and collaboratively.

To apply, submit your application online via the provided link, addressing your letter to Dr Harald Viersen. Ensure you include all required documents as specified in the application form. The application deadline is 22 March 2026, and interviews will be held on 24 April 2026. The position is based in Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

For further information, contact Dr Harald Viersen at [email protected].