2025/2026 KU Leuven PhD Scholarship in Agricultural Economics – Ethiopia (Partially Funded); Applications are now open for the 2025/2026 KU Leuven PhD Scholarship in Agricultural Economics, a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about agricultural development and rural sustainability. This position is hosted by the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at KU Leuven, under the Science and Technology Group.
The scholarship is part of a larger research project exploring the social-ecological impacts of agricultural intensification among smallholder farmers in Ethiopia.
Scholarship Overview
- Institution: KU Leuven
- Degree Level: PhD
- Field of Study: Agricultural Economics / Agricultural Engineering
- Location: Ethiopia (Fieldwork)
- Scholarship Type: Partially Funded
- Application Deadline: 10th September, 2025
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should demonstrate:
- A strong academic background in agricultural economics, development studies, or a related discipline
- Interest in agricultural development, rural sustainability, and interdisciplinary research
- Willingness and ability 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 (GIS skills are an added advantage)
- Strong academic writing and communication skills in English (Dutch proficiency is a plus)
- A collaborative, flexible, and proactive attitude
- Willingness to travel to Ethiopia for extended fieldwork
Scholarship Value and Benefits
- Duration: Initially 1 year, renewable for up to 3 additional years
- Funding: Full-time doctoral scholarship with a competitive stipend
- Additional Benefits:
- Health insurance coverage
- Subsidized public transportation
- Access to KU Leuven’s sports and childcare facilities
- Professional development through training programs and research workshops
Academic Environment
Selected candidates will be enrolled in the Arenberg Doctoral School, gaining access to a dynamic, multicultural, and interdisciplinary research environment at one of Europe’s top universities.
Host Country
- Fieldwork and research components will take place in Ethiopia, in collaboration with local institutions and farming communities.
Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 10th September 2025.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply through KU Leuven’s official recruitment portal. Make sure to include:
- A detailed CV
- A motivation letter
- Relevant academic transcripts
- Contact information for references
Not sure how to apply? We’re here to help – click here.
Take this opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the future of sustainable agriculture while building your academic and research career at KU Leuven.
