The PhD Scholarship in Sociology 2026 in Belgium at Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers a fully funded doctoral position focusing on the intersection of sociology, artificial intelligence, and social inequalities. This six-year trajectory includes both research and teaching components, providing a unique opportunity to explore how AI systems shape societal structures.
Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is a leading Dutch-speaking university in Brussels, known for its commitment to freedom, equality, and solidarity. As a member of the EUTOPIA alliance, VUB fosters an innovative and inclusive environment for groundbreaking research and education.
PhD Scholarship in Sociology Benefits
- Full-time PhD-scholarship for 12 months (extendable up to max. 48 months, on condition of positive evaluation)
- Grant linked to government scales
- Extensive homeworking options with telework allowance of 50 euros per month or internet fee of 20 euros per month
- Open and informal working environment with work-life balance, 35 days of leave, closure between Christmas and New Year, and 3 extra leave days
- Cost-free hospitalisation insurance
- Full reimbursement of home-to-work commute with public transport or bike compensation
- Wide selection of meals in campus restaurants at attractive prices
- Excellent and affordable facilities for sport and exercise, discounts via Benefits@Work, and Ecocheques
- Nursery near campus, discount on holiday camps
- Space to form job content and continuous learning through VUB learning platforms and training courses
PhD Scholarship in Sociology Eligibility Criteria
- Hold a Master’s degree in sociology or a related social science (e.g. statistics, demography, economics, data science, political science, communication science, computational social science)
- Excellent knowledge of Dutch and English for teaching and communication
- Solid quantitative mindset and comfortable with statistical analysis or strongly motivated to develop these skills
- Motivated and intellectually curious researcher with interest in societal implications of artificial intelligence, data, and digital technologies
- Have not performed any works in the execution of a mandate as an assistant, paid from operating resources, over a total period of more than 12 months
- Meet conditions for obtaining a valid permit for VUB and comply with VUB residence requirements (for non-EEA nationals)
How to Apply for PhD Scholarship in Sociology?
- Apply at the latest on 15/06/2026 via jobs.vub.be
- Upload your CV
- Upload your motivation letter
- Upload your diploma (not applicable for VUB alumni) and transcripts
- Include a brief outline (approximately one page) of a potential research topic related to this position
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the PhD Scholarship in Sociology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the PhD Scholarship in Sociology about?
This fully funded PhD scholarship at Vrije Universiteit Brussel focuses on the intersection of sociology, artificial intelligence, and social inequalities. The project explores how AI systems shape, reproduce, or challenge inequalities across domains such as public services, labour markets, education, or migration governance.
What are the eligibility criteria for this scholarship?
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in sociology or a related social science, have excellent knowledge of Dutch and English, possess a solid quantitative mindset, and show interest in societal implications of AI. Candidates must not have performed more than 12 months of assistant work paid from operating resources.
What is the deadline for applying?
The application deadline is 15 June 2026. All applications must be submitted via jobs.vub.be by this date, including CV, motivation letter, diploma, transcripts, and a one-page outline of a potential research topic.
What benefits are included in this scholarship?
Benefits include a full-time PhD scholarship for up to 48 months, grant linked to government scales, extensive homeworking options, telework allowance, 35 days of leave, cost-free hospitalisation insurance, full commute reimbursement, and access to campus facilities and discounts.
How long is the PhD scholarship duration?
The scholarship is initially for 12 months, extendable up to a maximum of 48 months based on positive evaluation of PhD activities. After that, the appointment can be extended for a further 24 months under a different employment status.
What is the teaching component of this position?
The position includes a teaching component of approximately 30% of the workload. You will support and assist statistical and quantitative courses within the Bachelor of Sociology. Proficiency in Dutch is required as the program is taught in Dutch.
What research topics are expected?
The PhD project should engage with how AI systems shape, reproduce, or challenge inequalities. Topics may include algorithmic bias and fairness, trust in AI, data-driven decision-making in public institutions, and ethically responsible use of AI. Both quantitative and computational approaches are welcome.
Who will supervise the PhD student?
The PhD student will be supervised by prof. dr. Tuba Bircan, within a dynamic research environment focusing on digitalisation and society. The supervisor will guide the development of the research topic and the application for an FWO fellowship.
What is the application process?
The application process involves an initial selection based on the application file, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates. Interviews are planned between 22-26 June 2026. Applications must be submitted via jobs.vub.be with required documents.
Is this scholarship open to international students?
Yes, but non-EEA nationals must meet conditions for obtaining a valid permit for VUB and comply with VUB residence requirements. The VUB values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, age, religion, or nationality.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Scholarships in France