About the Program
KU Leuven invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in Theology, Religious Studies, or Slavic Studies, focusing on the project “Amay-Chevetogne as ‘trait d’union’ between Catholicism and Orthodoxy.” The research explores the interactions between Catholic and Eastern Orthodox theologians from 1925 to 1965, particularly the influence of the Benedictine monks of Chevetogne and Russian Orthodox intellectuals. Supervised by Prof. Dr. Peter De Mey and Prof. Dr. Wim Coudenys, this project combines historical, theological, and cultural studies, using rich archival sources such as letters and diaries. The program offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary, multilingual research at one of Europe’s top universities, contributing to the study of ecumenism and the history of Christian dialogue.
Program Details
- Position: Fully Funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: KU Leuven
- Department/Faculty: Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies
- Supervisors: Prof. Dr. Peter De Mey and Prof. Dr. Wim Coudenys
- Location: Leuven, Belgium
- Start Date (Anticipated): January 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Full PhD scholarship (1-year renewable up to 4 years, subject to evaluation)
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Theology, Religious Studies, Slavic Studies, or a related field
Research Focus/Area
- Church History and the History of Ecumenism
- Theology and Religious Studies
- Russian Studies and Cultural Exchange
- Historical and Textual Network Analysis
- Interdisciplinary Research on Catholic–Orthodox Dialogue (1925–1965)
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Theology, Religious Studies, Slavic Studies, or related disciplines
- Excellent command of English (project language)
- Proficiency in French and Russian (languages of main sources)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Academic interest in church history, ecumenism, and Russian emigration
- Experience with historical and/or theological research
- Familiarity with textual and network analysis
- Knowledge of additional languages (e.g. Modern Greek, Italian) is an asset
- Strong organisational skills and ability to work independently
Key Features of the Program
- Full-time, funded doctoral research position (up to 4 years)
- Supervision by leading scholars in theology and Slavic studies
- Access to rich archival materials and interdisciplinary research networks
- Participation in academic events, colloquia, and international conferences
- Supportive academic environment within KU Leuven’s world-ranked Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies
Application Process
How to Apply:
Apply via the KU Leuven job portal by submitting all required documents online.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages)
- Detailed CV
- Full transcript of records
- Sample of academic writing (e.g. MA thesis or published article)
- Reference letter
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 4 October 2025
- Deadline: 4 November 2025 (23:59 UTC)
- Interviews (if applicable): To be confirmed
Where to Apply
- University Website: KU Leuven
- Official Notification: KU Leuven Job Portal
- Application Portal: Apply Here – KU Leuven
Learn about more PhD opportunities: HigherJobz
