Apply Now!! Fully-funded PhD Opportunity in International Relations at the University of Groningen

The University of Groningen is offering a fully funded, four-year PhD position in International Relations, with a research focus on the micro and macro dynamics of political violence.

This position is an opportunity for a motivated and research-driven candidate to contribute to an ambitious academic project situated within one of Europe’s largest and most dynamic departments of International Relations.

Research Focus:

Political Violence in Contemporary Contexts

The PhD project is designed to examine the evolving dimensions of political violence in today’s global landscape. Key areas of interest include the use and effectiveness of sanctions in military disputes, the increasing involvement of non-state actors in armed conflict, the impact of non-governmental organizations on peace-building, and the factors contributing to the success or failure of violent protests.

This research aims to uncover both micro-level and macro-level dynamics, with the goal of developing theoretical models that produce significant empirical insights. The successful candidate will be expected to engage rigorously with current academic literature, employ both qualitative and quantitative methods, and contribute original findings to the field.

Supervision and Academic Environment

The PhD candidate will work under the primary supervision of Dr. Matteo CM Casiraghi and Dr. Yuleng Zeng, with Prof. Francesco Giumelli serving as the project’s promoter. The project is hosted by the Faculty of Arts at the University of Groningen, a research-intensive and internationally oriented institution recognized for its academic excellence.

This PhD position provides access to world-class resources, mentorship, and a vibrant research community, while also offering valuable teaching experience.

The selected candidate will have the opportunity to participate in international conferences and collaborative research initiatives, further enhancing their academic profile.

Key Responsibilities

The appointed candidate will be expected to:

• Complete a doctoral dissertation within four years, either as a monograph or a paper-based thesis
• Publish and present academic research articles in collaboration with their supervisors
• Engage in teaching activities equivalent to 0.4 FTE over the course of the second, third, and fourth years
• Meet milestones within the designated project timeframe
• Contribute to the academic community and participate in relevant departmental activities

Candidate Qualifications

Eligible applicants must hold a Master’s or Research Master’s degree in a relevant field, such as International Relations, Political Science, Data Science, or another area within the Social Sciences. In addition, candidates must demonstrate:

• Strong academic writing skills in English
• Familiarity with quantitative research methods and software such as R, STATA, or Python
• A keen interest in producing high-quality, peer-reviewed publications Additional qualifications that will be considered assets include:
  • Experience working with big data or experimental research methods
  • Knowledge of multiple theoretical and methodological approaches to political violence
  • Previous academic publications in recognized journals

Employment Terms and Benefits

In accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, the University of Groningen offers the following employment conditions:

• A full-time appointment for a maximum of four years
• A starting gross monthly salary of €2,901, increasing to €3,707 in the final year
• An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus
• A 12-month initial contract, with continuation dependent on progress evaluation after six months
• An excellent work-life balance in a supportive academic environment
• The expectation to reside in the Netherlands during the appointment

The position is set to begin in September or October 2025, with a three-month period available for visa processing, if necessary.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted in English by April 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM CEST through the university’s official application portal. The application must include the following materials:

• A cover letter (approximately 500 words)
• A research proposal (PhD Opportunity in International Relations at the University of Groningen 1,000 words) related to the project theme
• A curriculum vitae
• Copies of the Master’s diploma, transcript of grades, and MA thesis (or a statement confirming its completion by August 2025)
• A writing sample (e.g., a published paper or thesis chapter)
• Contact details of two academic referees (reference letters will be requested for shortlisted candidates)
• A language certificate if the MA degree was obtained in a language other than English

All documents should be submitted in two PDF files one for the thesis and one for the remaining materials.

Diversity and Contact Information

The University of Groningen is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

APPLY NOW

For inquiries about the research project, candidates may contact: – Dr. Yuleng Zeng: [email protected] – Dr. Matteo CM Casiraghi: [email protected]

For questions about the application procedure: – Maarten Schmaal: [email protected]

Note: Applications sent by email will not be considered.

This PhD position offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to impactful international research, develop advanced methodological skills, and become part of a prestigious academic institution.