Lecturer-PhD - FTE - number

Leiden University was founded in 1575 and is one of Europe’s leading international research universities.

Applying is possible up to and including: 14 September 2026.

We are looking for a lecturer-PhD candidate in French language and culture, with a specific focus on French linguistics, French in the Francophone world, and language acquisition. In this role you will devote 75 % of your time to PhD research and 25 % to teaching.

• You will conduct linguistic research leading to a PhD. You are free to choose the focus of this research as long as it relates to the French language and aligns with one (or more) of LUCL’s six research programs.
• You will teach courses in French on topics related to French language and culture and the francophone world, with a specific focus on French linguistics and language proficiency. Depending on your expertise, you may also contribute to courses on French culture and history.

• Successfully completed a (Research) Master’s degree in linguistics.
• Demonstrable teaching experience, preferably in the field of French linguistics and/or language proficiency.
• Excellent command of French (minimum CEFRC1).
• Preferably sufficient command of Dutch (CEFR B1 or higher).
• Interest in one or more of the following areas of linguistics: computational, descriptive, theoretical, sociolinguistic, experimental, historical, or comparative Indo-European linguistics.
• Excellent communication skills that you can use to both inspire students and recruit new students to study French.

• A 1.0 FTE fixed-term contract for a period of five years (in accordance with Article 2.2a of the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities). The standard probation period is two months.
• Supervision by our highly qualified faculty with in-depth subject expertise.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities: €3,546 gross per month in the first year, rising to €4,241 gross per month in the final year.
• Excellent employment conditions with a flexible benefits package, an 8 % vacation allowance, and an 8.3 % year‑end bonus.
• An inspiring and collegial work environment in the centre of the city of Leiden.

Start date:

between 1 December 2026 and 1 February (or as soon as possible thereafter). The appointment must lead to the completion of a PhD thesis. You are expected to work in Leiden.

For further information on this project you may contact us.

Applications should be submitted no later than 14 September 2026 via the application system.

Applicants should submit online:

• Names, positions and contact information of two referees (no reference letters).
• A pdf of your MA thesis and a pdf of an article or a term paper that you wrote.
• A list of all Master-level modules you have taken, with an official transcript of grades.
• A brief description of a possible PhD project (max. 1 A4), including names of potential supervisors within LUCL.

Interviews are planned in October.

Enquiries from agencies are not appreciated.

Fostering an inclusive community is a central element of the values and vision of Leiden University. Leiden University is committed to becoming an inclusive community which enables all students and staff to feel valued and respected and to develop their full potential. Diversity in experiences and perspectives enriches our teaching and strengthens our research. High quality teaching and research is inclusive.