About the Program
KU Leuven invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in the field of Late Medieval Philosophy and Metaphysics, under the research project “The Metaphysics of Social Groups in Late Medieval Philosophy” led by Dr Jenny Pelletier. Hosted at the De Wulf-Mansion Centre for Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance Philosophy, the project explores the metaphysical foundations of various social groups (racial, familial, political, religious, etc.) through philosophical-theological texts by male and female authors in the Latin Christian tradition. The PhD researcher will engage in original dissertation work within this theme and actively contribute to project activities.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: KU Leuven
- Department/Faculty: Institute of Philosophy / De Wulf-Mansion Centre
- Supervisor: Dr Jenny Pelletier
- Location: Leuven, Belgium
- Start Date (Anticipated): November 1, 2025
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Fully funded
- Working Hours (if applicable): Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s or Research Master’s degree in Philosophy (or a closely related discipline with a strong foundation in the history of philosophy).
Research Focus/Area
- Medieval Metaphysics of Social Groups
- Late Medieval Latin Christian Philosophical Sources
- Group Agency, Normativity, and Ontology
- Potential focus areas: racial/ethnic, familial, political, religious groups, guilds, corporations
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree in Philosophy or related field with strong historical background
- Knowledge of Latin and/or medieval vernacular languages
- Strong academic command of English
- Eligible for PhD admission at KU Leuven: KU Leuven PhD Requirements
Preferred Qualifications:
- Interest in Medieval and Contemporary Philosophy
- Team collaboration and academic presentation skills
- Motivation to contribute actively to a structured team project
- Familiarity with metaphysical and social ontology themes
Key Features of the Program
- Interdisciplinary and international research environment
- Embedded in a leading research centre in medieval studies
- Team-based project participation and academic events
- Opportunities for training, networking, and conferences
- Flexible working arrangements and comprehensive benefits
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your application via KU Leuven’s official online portal. Email submissions will not be accepted.
Required Documents:
- Short cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation statement (max 1 page)
- Application via KU Leuven online tool
Important Dates:
- Applications Open: Ongoing
- Deadline: August 18, 2025
- Preferred Start Date: November 1, 2025
Where to Apply
- University Website: KU Leuven Website
- Official Notification: KU Leuven Job Posting Page
- Application Portal: Apply Online
