Stefaan Pleysier

KU Leuven’s Leuven Institute of Criminology (LINC) is advertising a fully funded PhD scholarship in Youth Criminology within the research line Youth Criminology and Juvenile Law . The project is centered on empirical research about juvenile justice systems , the actors involved in youth justice, and responses to juvenile delinquency. The position is interdisciplinary and combines criminology , law (especially juvenile law and children’s rights), and social sciences . The successful candidate will develop and complete a PhD project, conduct empirical social science research, and engage with legal and policy frameworks. The role also includes teaching support in youth criminology and juvenile law, supervision of master’s theses, and exam/academic support activities. Eligibility highlights include a Master’s degree or final-year status in Criminology or a related humanities field, a strong interest in juvenile justice and youth-related issues, and knowledge of research methods (qualitative and quantitative). Experience with tools such as NVivo and SPSS (or similar) is preferred, along with strong academic writing, analytical skills, and the ability to work both independently and in a team. Funding is described as a fully funded PhD scholarship with a 1-year contract renewable up to 4 years . The post offers a supportive and stimulating academic environment plus opportunities for research, teaching, and professional growth. The application deadline is 20 April 2026 at 23:59 CET . Applicants should apply through the KU Leuven jobsite portal. For more information, the post lists Prof. Stefaan Pleysier and Prof. Johan Put as contacts.

The Leuven Institute of Criminology (LINC) at KU Leuven is offering a full-time PhD researcher position within its 'Youth Justice' research line. LINC, part of the Faculty of Law and Criminology, is a vibrant academic community with around 70 professors, researchers, and assistants dedicated to criminological research and teaching. As a PhD researcher, you will conduct empirical research focusing on the youth justice system, examining actors, mechanisms, and responses to juvenile delinquency. The research is primarily criminological but is situated within an interdisciplinary context, incorporating legal frameworks such as youth delinquency legislation and children's rights. Your role will also include supporting teaching activities in youth criminology and assisting students with their Master theses. Administrative tasks such as exam supervision are part of the assignment. The position offers a stimulating environment that values academic freedom, critical thinking, and personal development, and you will join a close-knit team engaged in high-quality teaching and cutting-edge research. Applicants should be Master's students or in their final year in criminology or related humanities, with strong academic records. A passion for academic research, familiarity with legislative frameworks in youth justice, and proficiency in qualitative (NVivo) and quantitative (SPSS) data analysis are required. The ideal candidate is a motivated team player who can also work independently, is meticulous and systematic, and open to constructive feedback. The position is a fixed-term contract for one year, renewable up to four years, with salary and benefits according to KU Leuven regulations. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, and provides a supportive environment for all staff and students. The application deadline is April 20, 2026. For more information, contact Prof. dr. Stefaan Pleysier or Prof. dr. Johan Put. Apply online via the KU Leuven job portal.