Research Professor - Open to All Scientific Fields at KU Leuven, Belgium

Research Professor – Open to All Scientific Fields at KU Leuven, Belgium

About Position/Job

KU Leuven invites applications for full-time Research Professor positions open to all scientific fields under the BOFZAP funding scheme. Candidates should propose a high-level international research program affiliated with KU Leuven departments, fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and research excellence. Teaching duties are limited for the first 10 years, transitioning to regular professorship thereafter.

Position/Job Details

Position: Research Professor (Open BOFZAP)
Institution: KU Leuven
Department: Various, depending on candidate’s research field
Research Field: Open to all scientific disciplines
Location: Leuven, Belgium
Number of Posts: Multiple (dependent on funding and embedding)
Job Type: Full-time, Tenure Track
Start Date (Anticipated): September 2026
Working Hours: Full-time
Salary Range: According to KU Leuven academic salary scales
Required Degree/Diploma: Doctorate (PhD)

Research Area

Fundamental and applied scientific research
Multidisciplinary research collaboration
Development of international competitive research programs
National and international research partnerships
Research valorization and application

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Doctorate obtained before 1 September 2023
At least 3 years of research experience post-PhD
Strong international research record or high potential
No more than 20% existing KU Leuven ZAP appointment
Excellent English communication skills; Dutch language training offered if needed
Commitment to teamwork and leadership skills in academia

Preferred Qualifications:

Demonstrable teaching experience and didactic skills
Experience acquiring competitive research funding
International research experience
Ability to supervise master’s, PhD students, and postdocs

Key Responsibilities

Develop and lead a top-level international research program
Publish in leading journals and contribute to KU Leuven’s research reputation
Establish and strengthen research collaborations within KU Leuven and internationally
Supervise students and postdoctoral researchers
Acquire research funding and contribute to university service and administration
Gradual teaching responsibilities after initial 10-year period

Application Process

How to Apply:

Apply online via the KU Leuven application portal by 2 September 2025, 23:59 CET. Applications must include a host letter confirming departmental embedding and financial scope. Refer to the full application and selection procedure document on KU Leuven’s website.