KU Leuven Postdoctoral Scholarship in International Mobility

This postdoctoral scholarship at KU Leuven offers an exceptional opportunity to join the Faculty of Arts Research Group of Musicology and the Alamire Foundation, International Centre for the Study of Music in the Low Countries. The position is closely linked to the Royal Library of Belgium through the collaborative program "From Script to Sound: Connecting Heritage and Art through Research and Technology." Research strengths in this environment include chant and polyphony in late medieval and early modern Europe, source studies, text criticism, and the intersections of music with death and emotion.

The successful candidate will conduct original and independent research as part of the project "Funeral Soundscapes: Hearing Death Rituals in the Age of Confessionalization (c. 1550–c. 1650)," under the supervision of Prof. Antonio Chemotti. Responsibilities include publishing in leading international journals, assisting with conferences and exhibitions, contributing to funding applications, and engaging with a vibrant academic community of doctoral and postdoctoral researchers. The postholder is expected to reside in Belgium for the duration of the appointment, with limited time abroad permitted.

Applicants must hold a PhD in History or Musicology by the project start date, demonstrate expertise in music history and sound studies of the early modern period, and possess excellent English and at least one other relevant language. Experience in archival research and digital humanities is advantageous. Eligibility restrictions apply regarding prior residence and employment in Belgium, and the PhD must have been awarded within six years of the start date.

The scholarship is a three-year, full-time position (renewal subject to positive evaluations), beginning on 1 October 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. The role is fully funded and embedded within the Early Music Research Group and the Alamire Foundation. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, and provides a supportive environment for all researchers.

For more information, contact Prof. Antonio Chemotti at [email protected]. Application deadline is 1 July 2026. Apply via the KU Leuven job portal.