The Ghent University Doctoral Fellowship is a fully funded PhD position within the prestigious ERC project HAIR, focusing on Muslim femininities in Egypt, Lebanon, and the UAE. This fellowship offers a unique opportunity to conduct ethnographic and digital fieldwork, analyze Arabic literary texts, and contribute to theoretical debates on beauty, identity, and body politics.
Ghent University is one of Belgium’s largest and most dynamic employers, with over 15,000 staff members across 11 faculties. The Department of Languages and Cultures, part of the Faculty of Arts and Philosophy, hosts the Ghent Centre for Arabic, Islamic and Middle East Studies, providing an interdisciplinary and international research environment for doctoral candidates.
Ghent University Doctoral Fellowship Benefits
- Full-time position as a doctoral fellow within a prestigious ERC project
- Initial period of 12 months, extended to a total maximum of 48 months after positive evaluation
- Dynamic, international, and interdisciplinary research environment
- Access to high-level academic training and supervision
- Opportunities for international mobility and networking
- Integration into a collaborative research team
- Fellowship amount is 100% of the net salary of an AAP member in equal family circumstances
- 36 days of holiday leave per year (full-time) plus annual fixed bridge days
- Bicycle allowance and eco vouchers
Ghent University Doctoral Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. Arabic Studies, Islamic Studies, Anthropology, Middle Eastern Studies, Gender Studies, Religious Studies, Cultural Studies or related disciplines)
- Completed an exceptional MA dissertation on an aspect of the contemporary Middle East
- Strong interest in gender, embodiment, literature and Muslim societies
- Excellent research and writing skills
- Motivated to conduct fieldwork (including international research stays)
- Able to work both independently and as part of a team
- Excellent communication skills in Arabic (spoken and reading)
- Excellent academic writing and communication skills in English
- Dynamic and enthusiastic team player
How to Apply for Ghent University Doctoral Fellowship?
- Send your application to [email protected]
- Include your CV and a transcript of your academic record (merged into one pdf file, max. 2 pages)
- Include your application letter outlining your motivation and research interests in pdf format (max. 2 pages)
- Include a transcript of your studies at undergraduate and MA level (if already in your possession)
- Include a research proposal (max. 2000 words plus references and bibliography) that outlines a potential PhD project within the ERC framework (on the case study of Lebanon)
- Include the name (with title, affiliation and email) of three people who have accepted to be contacted as potential referees
- Include an overview of your study results and samples of published work (articles, chapters) in pdf
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Ghent University Doctoral Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Ghent University Doctoral Fellowship?
It is a fully funded PhD position within the ERC project HAIR, focusing on Muslim femininities in Egypt, Lebanon, and the UAE. The fellowship includes research, academic output, collaboration, and training opportunities.
What are the eligibility criteria for this fellowship?
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field, have completed an exceptional MA dissertation on the contemporary Middle East, and demonstrate strong research and writing skills. Proficiency in Arabic and English is required.
What benefits does the fellowship offer?
The fellowship provides a full-time position with a net salary equal to 100% of an AAP member, 36 days of holiday leave, bicycle allowance, eco vouchers, and access to high-level academic training and international networking.
What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026. Late applications are not accepted. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by August 21, 2026, with interviews in early September 2026.
How do I apply for the Ghent University Doctoral Fellowship?
Send your application to [email protected] including a CV, application letter, transcripts, research proposal, and contact details of three referees. All documents must be in pdf format.
What is the research focus of the HAIR project?
The HAIR project investigates cultural, socio-religious, political, and emotional meanings of beauty and body politics in Muslim majority contexts, focusing on identity formation, beauty ideals, gender norms, and selfhood beyond the veil.
Can I apply if my Master’s degree is not in Arabic or Islamic Studies?
Yes, the fellowship accepts degrees in related fields such as Anthropology, Middle Eastern Studies, Gender Studies, Religious Studies, Cultural Studies, or other relevant disciplines.
Is teaching experience required for this fellowship?
No, teaching is not required but limited teaching may be possible depending on department needs. The primary focus is on research and completing a doctoral dissertation.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
The fellowship starts with an initial period of 12 months, which after a positive evaluation is extended to a total maximum of 48 months. The contract starts on December 1, 2026 at the earliest.
Who can I contact for more information?
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Lisa Franke at [email protected].
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Scholarships in France