Doctoral scholarship holder Governance and regulation of urban logistics

boundaries and set a course for the future – a future that you can help to shape.

The Faculty of Law is looking for a full-time (100%) doctoral scholarship holder in the field of Governance and Regulation of Urban Logistics

Position

• You will actively work on the preparation and defence of a PhD thesis in the field of Sustainable Urban Logistics Governance and Regulation. This PhD research sits within the European project S³L²OGR (Smart, Social and Sustainable Last-mile Logistics Governance and Regulation). The project investigates how cities can steer sustainable last-mile logistics through innovative regulatory and governance mechanisms. Using participatory methods, living labs, and co-creation with public authorities, logistics operators, workers, and citizens, the project aims to design policy and regulatory solutions that reduce congestion, emissions, and spatial conflicts while enhancing social equity and economic viability. The PhD research will focus on analysing existing legal and policy frameworks, mapping logistics ecosystems and stakeholder relationships, developing novel governance instruments for urban logistics, as well as contributing to the development of a European toolkit for sustainable and inclusive urban logistics governance.
  • You will draw up a research plan and corresponding research methods in consultation with your supervisor(s) and undertake the necessary administration for a smooth PhD process.
  • You will conduct the research efficiently and to an appropriate standard, possibly abroad, and compete for funding for general or specific costs.
  • You will report progress to your supervisor(s) and committees, and present your research at scientific conferences.
  • You will defend your thesis publicly and aim for publication in the scientific press.
• You will make a supporting, scientific contribution to existing research projects or lines of research within and beyond your own doctoral research, as may be decided by your supervisor(s)
• You will compete for internal or external predoctoral funding.
• In addition to project-based research, you will also be responsible for a limited range of support tasks related to teaching and/or research management within the faculty of law.

Profile

• You hold a master degree in law or social sciences or you will have obtained it by the time of appointment.
• You can provide evidence of excellent study results.
• You have experience with comparative research. /Experience with is recommended.
• You have a good knowledge of English, both oral and written. Good knowledge of Dutch is an added advantage (in view of the data collection that will be involved in the project)
• Your teaching competences are in line with the University of Antwerp’s educational vision.
• Your research qualities are in line with the faculty and university research policies.
• You act with attention to quality, integrity, creativity and cooperation.
• You are an independent and creative thinker, with a strong willingness to learn and collaborate in a multicultural and multidisciplinary team.

What we offer

• We offer a doctoral scholarship for a period of two years. Following a positive evaluation, the scholarship can be renewed for another two years.
• We offer the opportunity to take part in academic activities within the scope of your work, as well as the opportunity to further develop yourself through training and education.
• The planned start date is between February 1 and July 15 2027.
• Your monthly scholarship amount is calculated according to the scholarship amounts for doctoral scholarship holders.
• You will receive ecocheques, Internet-connectivity allowance, and a bicycle allowance or a full reimbursement of public transport costs for commuting.
• As a doctoral researcher, you will have access to a wide and varied range of courses and an educational credit through the Antwerp Doctoral School.
• You will do most of your work at Stadscampus in a dynamic and stimulating working environment.
• Find out more about working at the University of Antwerp here.

Want to apply?

• You can apply for this vacancy through the University of Antwerp’s online job application platform up to and including November 11, 2026 (by midnight Brussels time). Click on the 'Apply' button and complete the online application form. Be sure to include the following attachments:
  • a motivation letter
  • your academic CV
  • A two page research proposal where you identify a research gap in this domain (0,5 page) page, propose a research question with sub-questions (0,5 page) and formulate a research plan (1 page).
• The selection committee reviews all applications as soon as possible after the application deadline. As soon as a decision is made, we will notify you. If you are still eligible after the pre-selection, you will be informed about the possible next step(s) in the selection procedure.
• If you have any questions about the online application form, please check the frequently asked questions or send an email to jobs@uantwerpen.be. If you have any questions about the job itself, please contact Wouter Verheyen (Wouter.verheyen@uantwerpen.be), professor Labour and Transport Law.

The University of Antwerp received the European Commission’s HR Excellence in Research Award for its HR policy. We are a sustainable, family-friendly organisation which invests in its employees’ growth. We encourage diversity and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities, regardless of gender identity, disability, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation or age. We encourage people from diverse backgrounds and with diverse characteristics to apply.