University of Antwerp is offering a PhD Scholarship in Economics and Development for 2025
Department: Institute of Development Policy (IOB)
Employment Type: Full-time (100%)
Location: University of Antwerp, Stadscampus, Belgium
Application Deadline: 5 June 2025
Planned Start Date: 1 September 2025 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
Shape the Future with the University of Antwerp
The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking European university that combines academic excellence with social impact. With over 20,000 students and 6,000 employees representing more than 100 nationalities, we are one of the most international and innovative employers in the region. Our mission is to foster high-quality education, pioneering research, and community engagement to help shape a better world—starting with you.
About the Institute of Development Policy (IOB)
IOB is a leading center for development research and education at the University of Antwerp. We are committed to conducting high-quality, interdisciplinary research that informs policies aimed at poverty reduction, social justice, and sustainable development.
Position Summary
IOB is seeking a full-time doctoral candidate to join an exciting research project in the field of economics and development. The PhD will be embedded in the FWO-funded project: “Aversion to Income and Lifespan Inequality: Theory and Evidence from 16,000 Survey Participants in 8 Countries”, led by Professor Olivier Sterck.
The project investigates how people perceive and respond to inequality in both income and lifespan. It addresses three key research gaps:
- How do people in different contexts (especially in low- and middle-income countries) feel about income and lifespan inequality?
- How do they balance inequalities within and between identity groups (e.g., gender, race)?
- How do individuals trade off between longer lives and higher incomes, and what are the ethical implications for policy frameworks?
This is a theory- and evidence-based research program that uses survey experiments across multiple countries. You will be responsible for developing a PhD thesis aligned with this project and will publish research articles related to the topic.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct original research for a PhD in economics and development.
- Design and analyze survey experiments related to inequality and poverty.
- Publish academic papers as part of the research output.
- Participate in a limited number of teaching and research support tasks at IOB.
Candidate Profile
Essential Qualifications:
- A Master’s degree in economics, development studies, or a closely related field (completed by the time of appointment).
- Strong academic track record, with excellent grades.
Skills & Experience:
- Interest and ability in theoretical economic modeling and applied mathematics.
- Experience working with data on inequality or poverty.
- Familiarity with survey design and experimental methods.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Additional Attributes:
- High standards of research integrity, creativity, and collaboration.
- Motivated, independent, and well-organized.
- Teaching capabilities aligned with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
What We Offer
- A full-time doctoral scholarship for two years, renewable for an additional two years upon positive evaluation.
- Monthly scholarship amount in accordance with official University of Antwerp PhD scales.
- Additional benefits including:
- Eco vouchers
- Internet connectivity allowance
- Bicycle allowance or full reimbursement of public transport for commuting
- An inspiring academic environment at the IOB, located at the University’s central Stadscampus.
- Opportunities for international collaboration and high-impact research.
Application Process
Apply online through the University of Antwerp job portal by midnight (Brussels time) on 5 June 2025. Make sure to include:
- A motivation letter, detailing your academic background, grades, and how you meet the required qualifications.
- Your academic CV.
- A writing sample in English (e.g., your BA/MA thesis).
After the deadline, the selection committee will review all applications. If shortlisted, you will be invited for selection tests and interviews, which are scheduled for 23 June 2025.
Contact & Further Information
For questions about the position, contact Prof. Olivier Sterck at [email protected].
Equal Opportunity Statement
The University of Antwerp holds the HR Excellence in Research Award and is a family-friendly, sustainable employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and encourage applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, disability, religion, or sexual orientation.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
