PhD Scholarship in Sociology ·Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Overview

This fully funded PhD Scholarship in Sociology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is designed for ambitious researchers interested in the intersection of sociology, artificial intelligence (AI), digital technologies, and social inequalities.

Eligibility

• Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Sociology, Statistics, Demography, Economics, Data Science, Political Science, Communication Science, Computational Social Science, or related social science disciplines.
• Excellent Dutch proficiency and strong English proficiency are required.
• Research skills should demonstrate a strong quantitative mindset, interest in statistical analysis, curiosity about AI and society, and motivation for scientific research.
• Must not have held an assistant mandate funded by operational resources for more than 12 cumulative months and meet Belgian residence and permit requirements if they are non-EEA nationals.

Benefits

• A full-time PhD scholarship with initial appointment for 12 months, extendable up to 48 months based on a positive evaluation.
• Competitively funded position following government salary scales.
• Mentorship and support for applying to the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) for a "Fellowship Fundamental Research."
• Benefits including extensive homeworking options, telework allowances, healthcare insurance, and reimbursement for public transport commuting costs.
• 35 days of annual leave and additional leave days.

How to Apply

Applicants must upload a Curriculum Vitae (CV), a motivation letter, diploma and academic transcripts, and a one-page outline of a proposed research topic relevant to the position.

Deadline

June 15, 2026