About Position/Job
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is inviting ambitious, talented researchers to apply for the IRIS Postdoctoral Fellowships, funded under the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Horizon Europe). These fully funded fellowships offer a unique opportunity to conduct independent, interdisciplinary research in any field, supported by world-class supervision and infrastructure in Brussels. The programme encourages innovative ideas aligned with the Brussels-Capital Region’s societal challenges and offers outstanding freedom and flexibility to shape your research direction. As a leading European university promoting freedom, equality, and solidarity, VUB provides an inspiring and inclusive environment where researchers can thrive and make a global impact. The first call is open until 31 October 2025 — a fantastic chance to join an international community at the heart of Europe.
Position/Job Details
- Position: IRIS Postdoctoral Fellow
- Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB)
- Department: All research fields (bottom-up approach)
- Research field: Open to all disciplines, with focus on interdisciplinarity and regional priorities
- Location: Brussels, Belgium
- Number of posts: 6 at VUB in this call (total 12 at VUB over two calls)
- Job Type: Postdoctoral, fully funded
- Start Date (Anticipated): 2026 (flexible depending on project approval)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary Range: Fully funded (in line with Horizon Europe MSCA standards)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research area
- Arts and Design (visual arts, performing arts, media studies, design research)
- Engineering and Technology (mechanical, electrical, civil, computer science)
- Health and Medical Sciences (public health, clinical research, epidemiology)
- Humanities (history, philosophy, literature, cultural studies, linguistics, etc.)
- Life Sciences (biology, medicine, neuroscience, bioengineering)
- Mathematics and Computer Science (applied maths, AI, data science, informatics)
- Physical Sciences (chemistry, physics, earth sciences, environmental science)
- Social Sciences (sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, law)
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD degree obtained or thesis successfully defended by the deadline
- Maximum 8 years of full-time research experience since PhD award (with allowances for career breaks)
- Excellent English language skills
- Must not have resided or carried out main activities in Belgium for more than 12 months in the last 3 years before 31 October 2025
Preferred Qualifications:
- Strong publication record
- Commitment to interdisciplinary research
- Confirmation of two supervisors at VUB with relevant expertise and capacity
Key Responsibilities
- Design and implement independent, high-impact research
- Collaborate with supervisors and research teams at VUB
- Contribute to interdisciplinary and regional priority research topics
- Disseminate results through publications, conferences, and outreach
- Engage actively in VUB’s vibrant academic community
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit your application via the official IRIS programme portal: IRIS Application.
Required Documents:
- Detailed CV
- Research proposal
- Confirmation letters from two VUB supervisors
- Proof of PhD or defence
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 1 July 2025
- Deadline: 31 October 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Interview Date: To be announced after shortlisting
Useful Links
- Institution Website: Vrije Universiteit Brussel
- Official Notification Link: IRIS Call Information
- Call Information Link: Call Information
- Apply now: IRIS Application Portal
Stay updated on the latest academic jobs: HigherJobz
