Deadline: 7 March 2025
The Law and Development Research Group at the Faculty of Law, University of Antwerp, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher in human rights and international law. The position is part of the European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant-funded GENESIS project (GovErning humaN rights through partnErShIpS: investigating the interface of international law and multistakeholder governance).
The GENESIS project explores the relationship between human rights accountability and multistakeholder governance, focusing on international law, corporate partnerships, and human rights protection. The postdoctoral researcher will investigate these interactions across multiple working packages of the project.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct and publish high-quality interdisciplinary research on human rights and international law.
- Work collaboratively within the GENESIS project team, led by Dr. Gamze Erdem Türkelli.
- Present research findings at academic conferences, workshops, and seminars.
- Contribute to the teaching and research activities of the Law and Development Research Group.
- Engage in academic service, representing the research group internally and externally.
Eligibility Criteria
- A PhD in Law, Political Science, International Relations, Development Studies, Human Geography, or a closely related field (completed or near completion).
- Excellent command of English (written and spoken) and experience in publishing academic research in English.
- Experience in interdisciplinary research and familiarity with empirical research methods.
- Strong research and analytical skills, demonstrated through prior academic work.
- Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative research team.
- International candidates and candidates with experience in international teams are strongly encouraged to apply.
What the Position Offers
Two appointment options are available, depending on eligibility and profile:
1. Postdoctoral Scholarship Holder (Full-Time)
- Eligibility Requirement: Must have spent at least 12 months abroad (outside Belgium) in the last three years before the start date.
- Contract Duration: One year, renewable up to three years after a positive evaluation.
- Salary: Based on standard postdoctoral scholarship amounts.
- Benefits: Eco-cheques, internet allowance, bicycle allowance, or full reimbursement of public transport for commuting.
2. Postdoctoral Researcher (Contractual – 80% Part-Time)
- Contract Duration: One year, renewable up to three years depending on funding.
- Salary: Based on the pay scale for a principal research fellow under Contract Research Staff (BAP).
- Benefits: Eco-cheques, internet allowance, group insurance, income protection insurance, bicycle allowance, or full reimbursement of public transport for commuting.
Application Process
- Apply online via the University of Antwerp job portal by March 7, 2025 (23:59 CET).
- Required Documents:
- Motivation Letter (max. 2 pages) explaining your interest in the GENESIS project and your qualifications.
- Academic CV detailing relevant experience.
- List of at least 2 scientific referees.
- Overview of study trajectory and transcripts.
- Single-author writing sample (e.g., published article, research paper, book chapter).
Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between March 31 – April 4, 2025 (virtual or in-person).
- The final selection will be based on academic merit, research potential, and fit within the GENESIS project.
For further details or application, please see the university’s website.
