Valérie Thomas

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) is offering a predoctoral research position within the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Department of Educational Sciences, and the Brussels Research Centre on Innovation in Learning and Diversity (BILD). The project is centred on educational innovation, with particular attention to parental involvement, self-regulated learning, and technology-supported learning in contemporary educational environments. The successful candidate will work with Prof. Valérie Thomas and will help define the exact doctoral topic in mutual agreement with the supervisor. The role combines research with limited academic service tasks, including participation in meetings and research activities, support for the functioning of the BILD group and the department, and occasional teaching-related duties such as supervising master’s theses. This position is based at VUB’s Brussels Humanities, Sciences & Engineering Campus in Elsene (Ixelles), Brussels. The contract is 0.5 FTE for 12 months, with the possibility of extension after a positive evaluation. The planned start date is 1 October 2026. Salary is linked to government scales. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in Educational Sciences completed before the start date, with excellent academic results. A strong profile in both quantitative and qualitative research methods is expected, along with knowledge of educational innovation, self-regulated learning, technology-supported education, and/or contextual influences such as parental involvement. Active English is required, with Dutch as an advantage. Candidates should be able to work independently and collaboratively, and non-EEA applicants must meet VUB permit and residence requirements. The application deadline is 14 August 2026 at 23:59 Brussels time. To apply, candidates must submit a motivation letter explaining their fit with BILD’s research, a brief research proposal of around 1,500 words, a CV, diploma, contact details for two referees, and an academic writing sample. Applications are submitted through the VUB jobs portal.