Deadline: 20 May 2025
Ghent University’s Center for the Future of Dispute Resolution is offering a fully funded doctoral fellowship for candidates with a Master’s degree in law. The selected researcher will contribute to a four-year project titled “Digitalization and the Future of Arbitration – An (Re-)evaluation of the Fundamentals of Arbitration”, supervised by Prof. Dr. Maud Piers.
Research Focus
The project examines how technological innovation—including AI and blockchain—is transforming international arbitration. It aims to assess the balance between procedural efficiency and fairness while integrating legal and technological analysis.
Key Details
- Host Institution: Ghent University, Faculty of Law and Criminology
- Department: RE21 – Interdisciplinary Study of Law, Private Law and Business Law
- Contract Type: Full-time, 4 years (initial 12 months + possible extension)
- Start Date: From July 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: May 20, 2025
Eligibility
- Master’s degree in Law (completed before October 1, 2025)
- Strong academic record
- Proven interest and knowledge in arbitration law, procedural law, and technology law
- Excellent command of English; additional languages (Dutch, French, German) are a plus
- Ability to conduct independent research; prior publications are an asset
Responsibilities
- Develop a PhD dissertation within the project scope
- Conduct legal and empirical research
- Participate in seminars, academic events, and research stays abroad
- Support educational activities (~4 hrs/week)
- Contribute to the academic community at Ghent University
Benefits
- Full doctoral fellowship (tax-free)
- 36 vacation days/year (full-time)
- Access to training, resources, research mobility, and library services
- Supportive and international academic environment
- Opportunities for career development and interdisciplinary collaboration
Application Requirements
Send your application to Prof. Dr. Maud Piers via email: maud.piers@ugent.be, including:
- Cover letter
- Full CV with publication list (if applicable)
- University certificates (including Master’s degree, if already obtained)
- A sample academic paper (e.g., Master’s thesis)
Selection Process
- Application deadline: May 20, 2025
- Interviews: First half of June 2025
- Final decision: End of June 2025
- Start date: From July 2025
For further details or application please see the university’s website.
