Postdoctoral Scholarship in Economics

About the University

The University of Antwerp is a dynamic, forward-thinking European university. It offers innovative academic education to more than 20,000 students, conducts pioneering scientific research, and plays an important service-providing role in society.

It is one of the largest, most international, and most innovative employers in the region, with over 6,000 employees from more than 100 countries. Through top scientific research, the university pushes boundaries and helps shape the future.

Position Overview

The Department of Economics at the Faculty of Business and Economics is seeking a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in economics.

You will actively work on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in international economics, with a focus on geopolitical trends in global economic systems.

Research Topics

This PhD project includes:

• Estimation of the effect of trade sanctions on “bystander” countries (countries neither targeted nor part of the sanctioning coalition)
• Empirical analysis of geographical borders of export markets and implications for international spillovers of monetary policy
• Quantitative modelling of currency choice and assessment of US dollar dominance in global trade

The development of additional related topics in international economics is encouraged.

Responsibilities

You will:

• Develop a research plan in consultation with your supervisor
• Carry out research and manage research administration for a smooth PhD process
• Conduct research (possibly abroad) and compete for external funding
• Report progress to supervisors and committees
• Present research at scientific conferences
• Publish research in academic journals
• Defend your PhD thesis publicly
• Contribute to ongoing research projects within the department
• Apply for internal or external predoctoral funding
• Provide limited teaching support within the Department of Economics

Candidate Profile

You should:

• Hold (or be near completion of) a Master’s degree in Economics or a relevant discipline
• Demonstrate excellent academic performance
• Have experience or strong interest in: Empirical and theoretical economics, Quantitative research methods
• Have proficiency in Stata (recommended)
• Have strong English communication skills (oral and written)
• Align with university teaching and research standards
• Demonstrate: Integrity, Creativity, Cooperation, Attention to quality

Strong preference is given to candidates who can: Work independently, Develop original research topics, Seek external predoctoral funding

What We Offer

• Doctoral scholarship for 1 year, renewable after positive evaluation
• Renewal possible up to 4 years total
• Planned start date: 1 September 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)

Additional benefits include: Ecocheques, Internet connectivity allowance, Bicycle allowance or full public transport reimbursement, Access to training and courses via the Antwerp Doctoral School, Dynamic working environment at Stadscampus

Application Information

Apply via the University of Antwerp online job portal by 18 June 2026 (midnight Brussels time).

Required documents: Motivation letter (max 3 pages), Academic CV, Transcript of Master’s coursework and grades (or provisional transcript if ongoing)

Optional documents: Up to 3 recommendation letters, Example of Stata code

Selection Process

• Applications reviewed after deadline
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to next steps
• Interviews will take place in Antwerp or online during the week of 22 June
• Candidates will be notified as decisions are made