PhD researcher Department of and Organisation Studies

Organisation/Company: KU LEUVEN

Department: Faculteit Economie en Bedrijfswetenschappen

Research Field: Economics – Business economics, Health economics, Labour economics

Position: Researcher – First Stage Researcher (R1) – PhD scholarship

Final date to receive applications: 17 Aug 2026 – 23:59 (UTC)

Country: Belgium

Contract: Temporary, Full‑time

Start Date: 1 Oct 2026 (subject to approval by doctoral committee)

Reference Number: BAP-

This PhD project investigates how emerging digital technologies, such as algorithmic management and wearable devices, shape work and employee well‑being. It combines critical theory with qualitative analysis and uses a theatrical performance as a research tool to explore future scenarios.

• Conduct qualitative research, including interviews, observations, and data analysis.
• Analyse discourses surrounding algorithmic management and wearable technologies within organizations.
• Investigate how these practices create new norms of “ideal employee well‑being” and how they may exclude certain groups.
• Develop and present research findings through academic publications and conferences.
• Support undergraduate and master’s students through supervision of theses, assistance with examinations, and course preparation.
• Participate in the development of the doctoral program and educational activities.

• Strong academic record (annual exam results ≥68% with honours, at least twice; final‑year master’s students encouraged).
• Interest in scientific research and motivation to pursue a PhD.
• Experience with or strong interest in qualitative research methods; experience with quantitative methods is a plus.
• Strong analytical skills, curiosity, critical thinking, and ability to work independently.
• Excellent command of spoken and written English and Dutch; proficiency enables independent qualitative research.

Applications must be submitted through the online application tool and include a motivation letter, CV, and a summary of your master’s thesis. In the motivation letter, explain your interest in the position and provide examples showing how you meet the required profile.

Applications are accepted until 17 Aug 2026. Interviews will take place in Leuven during the second half of August or the first week of September. The selection will follow shortly thereafter.

Prof. dr. Sophie De Winne –

dr. Marjan De Coster –

More information about working at KU Leuven:

Doctoral committee regulations: …