Two PhD Researcher Positions in Agricultural and Environmental Ethics KU Leuven in Belgium

The Institute of Philosophy at KU Leuven is offering two full-time, four-year PhD researcher positions in the field of normative agricultural and environmental ethics, as part of the European Research Council-funded project “BIOTA: A Biocentric Ethic of Sustainable Agriculture.” Supervised by Prof. Anna Wienhues, these positions focus on two main themes: the ethics of sustainable agriculture (with an emphasis on the normative and conceptual relationship between sustainability, socio-ecological resilience, and plant agriculture) and the ethics of adapting plants to climate change (specifically, the ethical considerations of biotechnological adaptation in agricultural contexts). Successful candidates will develop and write a doctoral thesis in one of these thematic areas, fulfilling the requirements of the doctoral programme at the Institute of Philosophy.

The positions are embedded in a vibrant academic environment, with opportunities to participate in the BIOTA research project’s activities (team meetings, reading groups, workshops) and the RIPPLE research unit’s seminars and events. Candidates must hold or be about to obtain a Master’s degree in Philosophy (or an interdisciplinary equivalent) with a high grade (typically at least 75%). Strong English proficiency, analytical skills, theoretical creativity, and a keen interest in environmental philosophy and plant/agricultural ethics are required. The scholarship includes office space, funding for workshops, international conferences, and a research visit abroad.

KU Leuven, a leading European research university, offers a supportive and inclusive environment in the historic city of Leuven. The application process requires a cover letter, research proposal, academic transcripts, CV with references, a writing sample, a declaration on AI tool usage, and proof of English proficiency if available. The deadline for applications is January 5, 2026, with interviews in early February. The final offer is contingent on approval by the Institute’s doctoral committee and university admissions.

Candidates from underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply. For further information, contact Prof.

Anna Wienhues at [email protected].