About the Program
University of Antwerp invites applications for a fully-funded PhD in Social Sciences titled “REIMAGINE: Understanding the Role of Economic Imagination for Advancing Decarbonization in Europe” at the Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences. This doctoral position focuses on analysing how economic imagination influences the challenges and opportunities of decarbonization across Europe, with a special focus on Spain. The project will be supervised by Professor Lisa Suckert and aligns with the research theme Centre for Research on Environmental and Social Change (CRESC). The PhD duration is four years and is based in Antwerp, Belgium, with an expected start date of April 2026. This position offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, qualitative research using interviews and data analysis software, international networking, and professional academic development in the field of social sciences and climate change studies.
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Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Antwerp
- Department/Faculty: Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences
- Supervisor: Professor Lisa Suckert
- Location: Antwerp, Belgium
- Start Date (Anticipated): April 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Fully-funded doctoral scholarship including monthly stipend, ecocheques, internet allowance, and travel/bicycle reimbursement
- Working Hours: Full-time, 100%
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s
Research Focus/Area
- Social Sciences
- Sociology
- Social Anthropology
- Political Science
- Economics (Decarbonisation and Climate Policy Focus)
- Environmental Social Science
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Climate Change and Decarbonisation Studies
- Comparative European Policy Research
- Economic Sociology
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Sociology, Political Science, Anthropology, Cultural Studies, Communication Studies, or related social sciences
- Advanced knowledge of qualitative research methods
- Excellent Spanish and English language skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., MaxQDA, Atlas.ti, NVivo)
- Proven experience conducting interviews
- Knowledge of Spanish socio-political and economic systems
- Additional language skills in Polish, Swedish, or German are a plus
- Ability to work independently and manage deadlines
Research Focus/Area
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Cultural Studies
- Economics related to decarbonization and climate change
- Qualitative research methodology
Key Features of the Program
- Structured research and training through the Antwerp Doctoral School
- Membership in CRESC – Center for Research on Environmental and Social Change
- Opportunities to present research at national and international conferences
- Support for ERC-funded project management experience
- Dynamic, interdisciplinary, and international research environment
Application Process
How to Apply:
Apply through the University of Antwerp online job application platform.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- Academic CV
- Master’s and Bachelor’s degree certificates
- One-page PhD project proposal related to REIMAGINE
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Now
- Deadline: 6 January 2026 (midnight Brussels time)
- Interviews: 16 January 2026 (if shortlisted)
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Antwerp
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: click here
Learn about more PhD opportunities: HigherJobz
