A Full Time PhD Position (4 years) (f/m/x) – TERRA Project
Votre mission
Context
The Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the University of Mons (Belgium) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position within the TERRA project (Terrestrial Politics in the Anthropocene). The successful candidate will join a small, interdisciplinary research team rooted in critical social sciences, science and technology studies (STS), and the environmental humanities but with strong collaborations across the social and natural sciences.
About the Project
TERRA is an Incentive Grant for Scientific Research (MIS) funded by the Belgian National Fund for Scientific Research (FNRS) and led by Principal Investigator Professor Mihnea Tănăsescu. The project explores the political challenges of ecological collapse in the Anthropocene by developing the concepts of Terrestrial Politics and Restorative Politics.
The case of Xylella fastidiosa—a deadly plant pathogen affecting olive-growing regions in Southern Europe, particularly Puglia (Italy)—serves as a key entry point. Through three complementary lenses—ecology, politics, and law—TERRA investigates the complex realities of plantation disease and environmental transformation across the Mediterranean basin, with fieldwork sites in both Italy and Spain.
Vos responsabilités
The PhD researcher will work in close collaboration with a postdoctoral researcher and the PI, focusing primarily on the Spanish case studies, in close comparative dialogue with the Italian context. Their work will emphasize ecological analysis, while also actively engaging with the legal and political dimensions of the project in collaboration with the other team members.
Key tasks include:
- Designing and conducting fieldwork in Spain and contributing to comparative analysis with Italy.
- Preparing a doctoral dissertation within the thematic scope of the TERRA project.
- Conducting interdisciplinary research at the intersection of ecology, law, and politics.
- Collaborating with internal and external partners, including other universities and research centers.
- Contributing to joint publications and the broader scientific output of the team.
- Participating in international conferences, workshops, and other academic dissemination activities.
- Supporting project-related administration, such as progress reports and event organization.
Votre profil
We are looking for a motivated and independent researcher with a strong interest in interdisciplinary approaches to environmental issues.
- A university degree (MSc or MA preferred) in ecology, biology, environmental sciences, plant science, or other related natural science field. A BA in one of these areas combined with relevant training (BA or MA) in the social sciences or humanities will also be positively considered.
- A strong interest in interdisciplinary research, STS, environmental humanities, and political ecology.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Good to excellent proficiency in Spanish and/or Italian.
- Working knowledge of French, or a willingness to acquire it, is considered an asset.
- Strong organizational and collaborative skills, with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
Notre offre
The position is based at the University of Mons, Belgium. While the role involves extended periods of fieldwork abroad, the selected candidate is expected to reside in Belgium and participate actively in the intellectual life of the department. Mons is a dynamic, well-connected city with easy access to other major Belgian cities (e.g., Brussels).
Our offer
- A fixed term contract for four years (38h/week), starting in September or October 2025, to be decided together.
- A minimum net monthly salary of 2.457,17 €.
- Flexible working hours.
- Minimum 30 days of yearly holiday.
- A convivial workspace centered around a good life-work balance.
Intéressé(e) ?
Applications (see documents below) should be sent by email to candidatures@umons.ac.be
- CV.
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages, 12-point font), detailing how you see yourself fitting within the topic and project and how your previous experience qualifies you for it.
- A writing sample (thesis or similar is fine).
- Interviews will be held in June 2025.
For any questions, contact mihnea.tanasescu@umons.ac.be
UMONS aims to be a diverse and inclusive community. Job vacancies respect the principle of non-discrimination and the recruitment procedure guarantees fair treatment of applications regardless of the gender, presumed race or ethnic origin, social origin, religion or beliefs, disability, age, sexual orientation or political opinions of applicants.
