2025/2026 KU Leuven PhD Scholarship, Ethiopia

The Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at KU Leuven, part of the Science and Technology Group, is actively seeking applications for a full-time PhD researcher in Agricultural Economics. This position is part of a research project focused on the social-ecological consequences of agricultural intensification among smallholder farmers in Ethiopia.

Eligibility: 

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A strong interest in agricultural development, rural sustainability, and interdisciplinary research
• Familiarity with or willingness to conduct fieldwork in low-income settings
• Experience with or willingness to learn data management and statistical analysis software
• Basic knowledge of econometrics and GIS tools (GIS skills are a plus)
• Strong academic writing and communication skills in English; knowledge of Dutch is advantageous
• Willingness to travel to Ethiopia for fieldwork
• A proactive, collaborative, and flexible attitude

Value: 

KU Leuven offers a competitive full-time doctoral scholarship, initially for one year with the possibility of renewal for up to three additional years. The position includes benefits such as health insurance, subsidized public transportation, access to sports and childcare facilities, and opportunities for professional development through training programs.

The candidate will be enrolled in the Arenberg Doctoral School and benefit from a dynamic, multicultural, and interdisciplinary academic environment.
Type: PhD
Eligible Fields: Agricultural Engineering
Deadline: 10th September 2025
Host Country: Ethiopia