About the Position
KU Leuven invites applications for a fully funded Research Professor position in all scientific fields at the independent academic staff (ZAP) level. This prestigious opportunity focuses on high-impact research, fostering innovation, and contributing to international research initiatives across multiple disciplines. Candidates will have the chance to develop their own research programmes while integrating into established research units.
The successful candidate will work collaboratively within the host faculty or department, undertaking independent research using advanced methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches. Access to state-of-the-art facilities and guidance from experienced researchers ensures a productive environment for generating high-quality publications and building an internationally recognised research profile.
Applicants must hold a PhD and demonstrate a strong research record or potential to achieve one, alongside proven collaboration and leadership skills. Candidates are expected to supervise Master’s, PhD students, and postdocs, while contributing to research networking, acquiring competitive funding, and expanding the international reputation of the host unit.
This is a full-time tenure-track research professor position, funded for the first ten years by the Flemish Government through the Special Research Fund (BOF). The appointment begins on 1 September 2027 and provides opportunities for international collaboration, conference participation, and long-term career advancement in a globally recognised research-intensive university environment.
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Position / Job Details
- Position: Research Professor (BOFZAP)
- Institution: KU Leuven, Belgium
- Department: Independent Academic Staff (ZAP)
- Research Field: All Scientific Fields
- Supervisor: Host Faculty Contact (as per application)
- Location: Leuven
- Country: Belgium
- Job Type: Full-time, Tenure-track
- Number of Positions: Multiple
- Start Date: 01 September 2027
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary / Funding: Fully funded by BOF for the first 10 years
- Required Degree / Diploma: PhD with ≥3 years of research experience
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Research Area
- Life Sciences & Biomedical Sciences
- Health Sciences & Clinical Research
- Medicine & Medical Technologies
- Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Movement & Rehabilitation Sciences
- Biosciences & Biotechnology
- Environmental & Earth Sciences
- Ecology, Biodiversity & Conservation
- Agricultural & Food Sciences
- Engineering & Technology
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical & Electronics Engineering
- Materials Science & Nanotechnology
- Chemical Engineering
- Energy & Sustainability Studies
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science & Computational Modelling
- Mathematics & Applied Mathematics
- Physics & Physical Sciences
- Chemistry & Chemical Sciences
- Space & Astronomy Research
- Humanities & Philosophy
- History & Archaeology
- Theology & Religious Studies
- Literature & Cultural Studies
- Arts & Performing Arts
- Languages & Linguistics
- Classics & Ancient Studies
- Social Sciences & Political Science
- Economics & Business Studies
- Psychology & Cognitive Science
- Education & Pedagogy
- Law & Criminology
- Public Policy & Governance Studies
- Interdisciplinary & Emerging Fields
- Global Studies & International Relations
- Communication & Media Studies
- Urban Planning & Architecture
- Human Behaviour & Social Research
- Ethics, Society & Philosophy
- Multidisciplinary Research Projects
- Digital Humanities & Cultural Informatics
- Heritage Studies & Museology
- Creative Writing & Literary Research
- Comparative Literature & Translation Studies
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Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD completed before 01 September 2024
- ≥3 years of research experience
- Excellent research record and integrity
- Demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and academic teaching skills
- Excellent written and spoken English
Preferred Qualifications:
- International research experience
- Track record of high-impact publications
- Ability to secure national/international funding
- Experience supervising students and postdocs
- Knowledge of Dutch (training provided if needed)
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Key Responsibilities
- Conduct high-level independent research
- Build and lead a research group
- Publish in leading journals and conferences
- Supervise Master’s, PhD students, and postdocs
- Collaborate nationally and internationally
- Contribute to teaching and service after the initial 10 years
Application Process
Submit your application and all required documents through the official portal listed below.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- List of publications
- Research statement and future research plan
- Host letter signed by KU Leuven academic contact
- Teaching statement (if applicable)
- References
Important Dates:
- Applications Open: Immediately
- Application Deadline: 01 September 2026, 23:59 CET
- Expected Start Date: 01 September 2027
Where to Apply
- University Website: KU Leuven
- Department / Research Unit: KU Leuven Research Units
- Official Job Announcement: Research Professorships BOFZAP
- Application Portal: Submit Your Application
📧 Contact for Queries:
- Email: kristin.vermeylen@kuleuven.be or martine.vannierop@kuleuven.be
- Phone: +32 16 32 76 98
This position offers an excellent opportunity for scholars seeking fully funded research positions, international collaboration, and career advancement in a world-class academic environment.
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