Konstantinas Andrijauskas

The Institute of International Relations and Political Science (IIRPS) at Vilnius University invites applications for state-funded PhD positions in political science. IIRPS is a leading social sciences institution in Central Eastern Europe and the Baltic region, offering a vibrant academic environment and a tradition of excellence in research and teaching. The doctoral programme spans four years, providing comprehensive theoretical and methodological training, continuous support, and opportunities for research project implementation. The studies emphasize inclusion, feedback, and individual attention to each doctoral student, aiming to strengthen scientific, methodological, and pedagogical skills. PhD candidates will receive a scholarship ranging from 1,406 EUR in the first year to 1,628 EUR in subsequent years, covering tuition and living expenses. The programme is fully funded by the Lithuanian state, ensuring financial stability throughout the doctoral studies. Applicants are encouraged to submit research projects on a wide range of topics, including but not limited to: Changing nature of Lithuanian external interdependencies (trade, migration, security, cyber space, information) and their impact on foreign policy Effects of international structural changes and domestic politics on transatlantic relations and implications for Lithuania Impact of crises and external shocks on public policy and state cooperation in Europe Identities in (post-)Soviet and democratic political regimes The political economy of FinTech and security Baltic capitalism and the political economy of growth Politics of (post-)Soviet aesthetics Shifts in U.S. foreign policy and challenges to the contemporary world order Politics of Eurasia’s ethnic minorities and peripheral regions under conflict Emerging powers and their challenges/opportunities for Lithuania and the EU Global governance of catastrophic technological risk EU enlargement, transitional justice, and post-war governance Supervision is provided by a team of prominent experts, including Prof. Dr. Ramūnas Vilpišauskas, Prof. Dr. Vitalis Nakrošis, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nerija Putinaitė, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vytautas Kuokštis, Prof. Dr. Natalija Arlauskaitė, Prof. Dr. Tomas Janeliūnas, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Konstantinas Andrijauskas, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Florian Caspar Rabitz, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lina Strupinskienė. The Institute offers access to international academic networks, archives, and research infrastructure, including the InvigoratEU Horizon Europe project. Eligibility requires a Master’s degree or equivalent in political science or a related field, and excellent English proficiency. Selection is based on academic grades, evaluation of the research project and interview, and research experience. The research project should demonstrate clarity, relevance, novelty, and methodological suitability. Motivation and ability to defend the project are assessed during the interview. Additional points are awarded for participation in research projects, fieldwork, and conference presentations. Application deadline is 15 June 2026. For applicants educated in third countries, registration in the Vilnius University Admission System must be completed by 18 May 2026; for those educated in Lithuania or other EU Member States, by 25 June 2026. Submit your application documents by email to [email protected] and [email protected]. For further details, visit the admission page . IIRPS VU is renowned for its critical analysis of contemporary social science issues, political philosophy, international relations, and policy-oriented research. The Institute regularly hosts high-level politicians, diplomats, and distinguished speakers, providing doctoral students with unique opportunities for academic and professional development. For more information, contact [email protected] or visit the Institute website .