University of Antwerp Doctoral Scholarship

The University of Antwerp invites applications for a full-time doctoral scholarship in the field of lobbying and EU public policy, based in the Department of Political Science within the Faculty of Social Sciences. This position offers the opportunity to conduct pioneering research on interest group mobilization across the EU policy cycle, embedded in a collaborative and internationally oriented research environment with strong expertise in EU politics, interest groups, and public policy analysis.

Supervised by Dr. Frederik Stevens (Politics and Public Governance), Prof. Peter Bursens, and Prof. Dirk De Bièvre (International Politics), the doctoral researcher will study how interest groups strategize, gain access, and exert influence across different stages of the EU policy process. The project encourages the development of independence in research design and execution, while providing close supervision, structured feedback, and integration into ongoing research activities. The successful candidate will publish scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to teaching and research support tasks within the department.

The scholarship is initially awarded for one year, with the possibility of renewal up to a maximum of four years, contingent on positive evaluations. The monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to standard rates for doctoral scholarship holders. Additional benefits include ecocheques, internet-connectivity allowance, bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting, and access to a wide range of courses and educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School. The planned start date is November 1, 2026, and most work will be conducted at the City Campus in a dynamic and stimulating environment, integrated into the Politics & Public Governance and International Politics research groups.

Applicants must hold a Master degree in Political Science, European Studies, Public Policy, or a closely related field, or obtain it by the start date. Excellent academic performance, a strong interest in lobbying, EU politics, and public policy research, and an excellent command of English (written and spoken) are required. Teaching competences and research qualities must align with university standards. Willingness to develop skills in quantitative data analysis tools such as Stata or R is expected. Familiarity with lobbying, EU institutions, and public policy processes, as well as experience with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods research, are considered strong assets.

To apply, candidates must submit an online application via the University of Antwerp’s job application platform by August 17, 2026. Required documents include a motivation letter, academic CV, and a research proposal (maximum 3 pages) outlining the approach to studying interest group lobbying across the EU policy cycle, including a clear problem statement, research questions, preliminary hypotheses, and an outline of the data collection strategy. Selection interviews for shortlisted candidates are scheduled for September 16, 2026.

The University of Antwerp is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. For further information about the position, applicants may contact Dr. Frederik Stevens, Prof. Peter Bursens, or Prof. Dirk De Bièvre via email. The university has received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award and offers a sustainable, family-friendly working environment that invests in employee growth.