PhD Position in European Muslims' Belonging to the EU at Universiteit Leiden

The Institute for History at the University of Leiden invites applications for a PhD position focused on the sense of belonging of European Muslims to the European Union (EU). The successful candidate will join the NOW Open-L funded project 'European Muslims and Belonging to the EU, 2015-2025,' led by Professor Sarah Wolff, with an expected start date of January 1, 2027.

Project Description

This project aims to explore several key questions: What is the sense of belonging of European Muslims to the EU? How do they relate to the EU, and how do they experience their EU citizenship? The research will investigate the relationship between belonging, agency, and representation in EU institutions, as well as how these institutions consider this minority in their policy-making. The project seeks to deliver the first comprehensive study on this topic, examining how European Muslims conceptualize and negotiate their belonging to the EU, defined as individuals self-identifying as Muslims with EU citizenship.

Candidate’s Profile

We are looking for a candidate who will primarily contribute to WP2 'Agency of Belonging in Europe,' focusing on the second objective of the project. The candidate will investigate how European Muslims act as transnational and grassroots agents, actively shaping and contesting their sense of belonging to European communities and institutions. This includes a focus on mobilization, demonstrations, and strategic litigation at both national and EU levels.

The research will utilize EU studies, social movement theory, digital methods, and discourse analysis to examine transnational collective action among European Muslims. The candidate will analyze selected pan-European organizations and networks, including both Muslim and non-Muslim organizations, and will select specific mobilization campaigns and political issues for study.

Key Responsibilities

Complete a PhD thesis within four years.
Participate in project research group meetings.
Present intermediate research results at workshops and conferences.
Engage in the training program of one of the Graduate Schools.
Co-organize workshops and conferences.
Contribute to public outputs such as podcasts or policy briefs.

Requirements for PhD Candidate

An MA or RMES in political science, international relations, European studies, migration, or sociology, with a high-quality MA thesis. If the degree is not yet obtained, a statement from the applicant’s supervisor confirming its completion by the appointment date is required.
Strong research skills, particularly in qualitative methods; quantitative skills are a plus.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an international team.
Excellent command of English and Arabic; proficiency in French, Dutch, or Bulgarian is advantageous.
Strong writing skills and a keen interest in the EU, belonging, minorities in Europe, and Muslims.
The candidate must reside and work in the Netherlands.

Information

For further details, please contact Professor Sarah Wolff at s.wolff@hum.leidenuniv.nl.

About Our Organisation

Leiden University, founded in 1575, is known for its excellent teaching and research. The Faculty of Humanities has over 800 staff and offers 26 Bachelor's and 27 Master's programs to over 7,200 students in Leiden and The Hague. The Institute for History is a vibrant community of researchers and lecturers with a strong track record in securing national and international research grants.

Diversity and Inclusion

Leiden University’s Institute for History values diversity and encourages candidates from underrepresented and/or marginalized backgrounds to apply.

Terms and Conditions

This is a full-time position for one year, with the possibility of extension for an additional three years upon positive evaluation. The salary ranges from €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month (pay scale P, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities). Additional benefits include holiday bonuses, training opportunities, and a dual career program for international spouses. More information can be found at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions.

Applications

Applications should be submitted in English and include:

A cover letter.
A research proposal (maximum 1000 words) detailing your approach to the subproject.
A curriculum vitae, including publications (if applicable).
A copy of your MA thesis.

Applications must be submitted by October 26 via the application system. Please reference the vacancy number in your application and submit all documents in PDF format.

An interview with the search committee is planned for November 13, 2026. A list of two referees will be required later in the application process; details about referees do not need to be provided at this stage.