About the PhD Position
KU Leuven invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Floral Materials and Objects within Archaeology and Cultural Studies at the Faculty of Arts in Leuven, Belgium. This doctoral research project focuses on floral materials and organic objects from the 2nd millennium BCE East Mediterranean. It contributes directly to advancing knowledge in archaeology, ancient studies, and interdisciplinary heritage research.
The position is embedded in the ODYSSEIA programme and supervised by Prof. Dr. Ann Brysbaert. Moreover, the project examines human-environment interactions through organic materials using innovative and multidisciplinary approaches. These include archaeobotany, ethnographic and experimental research, 3D modelling, and iconographic and textual analysis. Fieldwork in Greece and research in museum collections will further strengthen the study.
The PhD is designed for four years and offers a competitive, fully funded doctoral scholarship under Belgian academic standards. Furthermore, candidates will engage with archaeological datasets, Bronze Age texts, and material analyses. They will benefit from structured doctoral training, access to leading research facilities, and active participation in an international academic community.
This opportunity is ideal for candidates with backgrounds in archaeology, ancient history, or cultural studies. It strongly supports those pursuing academic and research careers in Archaeology and Cultural Studies, particularly in material culture and environmental archaeology. Explore fully funded academic research opportunities in archaeology and heritage science for international scholars.
Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Archaeology & Cultural Studies
- Position type: PhD
- Institution: KU Leuven, Belgium
- Department: Faculty of Arts, Archaeology
- Research Group: ODYSSEIA Programme
- Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Ann Brysbaert
- Location: Leuven
- Country: Belgium
- Duration: 4 years (1+3 with evaluation)
- Start Date: Sept–Dec 2026
- Funding: Fully funded doctoral scholarship (Assistant salary scale)
- Employment Type: Full-time (38 hours per week)
- Number of Positions: 1
- Required Degree / Diploma: Master’s degree in Archaeology or related field
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Research Focus
- Bronze Age Aegean material culture
- Floral and organic archaeological materials
- Archaeobotany and environmental archaeology
- Ethnographic and experimental research
- 3D modelling and material analysis
- Ancient texts and iconography
- Socio-economic systems in the East Mediterranean
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Archaeology or related discipline
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Experience with databases and statistical tools
- Excellent English communication skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Specialisation in archaeobotany
- Experience in excavation or museum research
- Knowledge of Greek language
- Relevant publications or research experience
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct doctoral research within the ODYSSEIA project
- Analyse floral materials and archaeological datasets
- Participate in PhD training programmes
- Present research at conferences and workshops
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals
- Collaborate with international research teams
- Contribute to teaching and academic activities
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official portal of KU Leuven.
Required Documents:
- CV (max 2 pages)
- Research proposal (max 3 pages)
- Cover letter (max 2 pages)
- Writing sample (thesis or publication)
- Academic transcripts
- Contact details of three referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 16 March 2026
- Application Deadline: 30 April 2026 (UTC)
- Interviews: June 2026
- Expected Start Date: Sept–Dec 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: KU Leuven
- Project Information: –Research Portal – ODYSSEIA – Project
- Official Job Announcement: PhD Position – ODYSSEIA Project
- Application Portal: KU Leuven Vacatures | Floral materials and objects from the 2nd millennium BCE East Mediterranean
📧 Contact for Queries
- Email: ann.brysbaert@kuleuven.be
This fully funded PhD position offers an excellent opportunity for international scholars seeking research support, global collaboration, and advanced academic training at KU Leuven in Belgium.
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