2025 PhD Scholarship in Economics & Development – University of Antwerp
Fully Funded PhD in Development Economics at the University of Antwerp (Deadline: 5 June 2025)
Are you passionate about global inequality, policy, and evidence-based research? Join the Institute of Development Policy (IOB) at the University of Antwerp for a fully funded PhD position in development economics, with a focus on inequality, ethics, and lifespan outcomes.
About the Project
The PhD will be embedded in the FWO-funded research project:
“Aversion to Income and Lifespan Inequality: Theory and Evidence from 16,000 Survey Participants in 8 Countries”,
led by Professor Olivier Sterck.
This innovative, interdisciplinary project investigates:
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How people perceive income and lifespan inequality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
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How individuals weigh inequality within and between identity groups (e.g., gender, race).
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How people trade off between longer lives and higher incomes, and the ethical implications for policymaking.
The project combines economic theory, survey experiments, and empirical analysis to inform more inclusive and equitable policies.
Your Role as a Doctoral Researcher
As a full-time PhD candidate, your responsibilities will include:
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Conducting original research leading to a PhD in economics and development.
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Designing and analyzing survey experiments focused on inequality and poverty.
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Publishing peer-reviewed articles as part of your doctoral research.
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Participating in limited teaching or research support activities at IOB.
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Development Economics Schloarship Program (Who We’re Looking For)
Required Qualifications:
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A completed Master’s degree (by appointment date) in economics, development studies, or a closely related field.
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A strong academic record with excellent grades.
Required Skills:
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Strong interest and skills in theoretical economic modeling and applied mathematics.
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Experience working with inequality or poverty data.
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Familiarity with survey design and experimental research methods.
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Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Preferred Attributes:
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High research integrity, creativity, and independent thinking.
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Ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural academic environment.
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Organizational skills and teaching potential aligned with the University’s educational vision.
Development Economics Schloarship Program (What We Offer)
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A full-time PhD scholarship for 2 years, renewable for another 2 years based on performance.
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Monthly stipend in line with the University of Antwerp PhD salary scales.
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Additional benefits include:
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Eco vouchers
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Internet and connectivity allowance
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Bicycle allowance or public transport reimbursement
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An inspiring, research-focused environment at the IOB, located at Antwerp’s central Stadscampus.
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Opportunities for international collaboration, conferences, and high-impact publication.
Development Economics Schloarship Program (How to Apply)
Deadline: 5 June 2025, midnight Brussels time
Apply through the official University of Antwerp job portal.
Your application must include:
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A motivation letter describing your academic background, relevant experience, and interest in the project.
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Your CV with academic qualifications and achievements.
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A writing sample in English (e.g., Master’s or Bachelor’s thesis).
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for selection tests and interviews on 23 June 2025.
Contact Information
For questions, contact Prof. Olivier Sterck
Email: olivier.sterck@uantwerp.be
Equal Opportunity Employer
The University of Antwerp is proud to be a family-friendly, inclusive, and sustainable employer. We hold the HR Excellence in Research Award and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, religion, or sexual orientation.
Ready to Tackle Inequality?
Apply now to start your journey toward a PhD that blends theory, evidence, and real-world impact—and help shape more equitable futures worldwide.