PhD Researcher Van Vollenhoven Institute for Law, Governance and Society
Join an interdisciplinary Horizon-funded project investigating post-imperial Islamic legal culture and constitutional reform.
Best for:Best for researchers with a background in social sciences or law interested in socio-legal studies, constitutional reform, and the Middle East.
Overview
Leiden University invites applications for a four-year PhD researcher position within the Van Vollenhoven Institute for Law, Governance and Society. Part of the transnational Minaret Project funded by a Horizon Unit Grant, the role focuses on neo-imperialism and constitutional reform in regions such as Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. The successful candidate will conduct socio-legal empirical research, write a doctoral dissertation, and participate in secondments and public engagement activities. The position requires independent initiative alongside collaboration within an international interdisciplinary research team.
What you'll do
- Conduct socio-legal and policy analysis through fieldwork and stakeholder interviews in selected countries.
- Write a doctoral dissertation and co-author academic publications based on qualitative research findings.
- Contribute to the comparative framework of the subproject and broader work packages within the Minaret Project.
- Present research findings at project-organized summer schools, training events, and international conferences.
- Help organize international workshops and academic events with civil society partners.
- Participate in two mandatory secondments abroad ranging from two to six months each with associated academic and non-academic partners.
Requirements
Degree required: MSc or LLM in Anthropology, Political Science, Law, International Studies, International Relations, Development Studies, or a closely related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; strong proficiency required. Knowledge of Arabic is strongly recommended.
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated experience in conducting empirical research
- Familiarity with socio-legal literature and qualitative research methods
- Knowledge of constitutional reform relating to religion, democracy, and governance
- Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary and international research team
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-31
Submit your application in English using the online application button on the vacancy portal. Ensure all required documentation including your CV, motivation letter, transcripts, writing sample, and references are attached before the deadline.
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Bachelors and masters transcripts
- Major writing sample
- 2-3 academic references
Contact
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