Lore Mergaerts

The Leuven Institute of Criminology (LINC) at KU Leuven invites applications for a full-time PhD researcher position focusing on administrative and criminal law enforcement in a European and comparative perspective. LINC, part of the Faculty of Law and Criminology, is a vibrant research community with around 70 professors, researchers, and assistants dedicated to criminological research and teaching. This PhD project aims to advance academic research in Criminological Sciences or Law, with a particular emphasis on the role of artificial intelligence in the collection and assessment of evidence within Belgian criminal investigations. The research will explore administrative and criminal law enforcement, considering both European and comparative frameworks. The successful candidate will also provide limited support for teaching activities, including supervision of master’s theses and assistance with exam administration. Applicants should possess a master’s degree in Criminological Sciences, Law (with strong criminological and methodological skills), or Psychology (with a demonstrated affinity for law enforcement practice). Essential qualifications include thorough knowledge of the police and judicial authorities in Belgium, familiarity with European criminal justice policy, and proficiency in qualitative, quantitative, and comparative legal research methods. Didactic skills and experience in developing research proposals are highly valued. The ideal candidate is motivated, responsible, collegial, communicative, well-organised, precise, and efficient. The position is offered as a full-time PhD researcher contract for one year, with the possibility of extension up to four years. KU Leuven is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially safe environment, embracing diversity and equal opportunity for all. For further information, prospective applicants may contact Prof. dr. Lore Mergaerts ([email protected]) or Prof. dr. Dirk Van Daele ([email protected]). In case of technical issues with the online application, please email [email protected]. The application deadline is April 20, 2026. Apply online via the KU Leuven job portal: Application Link .