Fully Funded PhD and Postdoc Positions at Vrije University Brussel Belgium 2026

Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium has opened applications for multiple fully funded PhD positions and one Postdoc position.

These opportunities are available in diverse fields including social sciences, law, physics, artificial intelligence, and engineering. Most PhD positions offer a monthly grant. International students and researchers from all nationalities can apply, and there is no application fee. Deadlines vary by position, with the earliest on 29 May 2026 and the latest on 31 July 2026.

If you are looking for similar opportunities in Europe, explore fully funded scholarships in Belgium for international students.

Overview of Opportunities

• Host Institution: Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Belgium

• Degree Levels: PhD and Postdoc

• Funding Type: Fully funded (monthly grant/stipend)

• Eligible Nationalities: All countries

• Application Fee: None

• Deadlines: Vary by position (29 May 2026 – 31 July 2026)

For students seeking other funded programs in Europe, check latest scholarships in Europe for all nationalities.

Eligible Fields of Study

VUB is recruiting for research projects in the following areas:

• Autonomous Mobility and AI

• Sociology

• Auditing

• Law and Legal History (Early Enlightenment, Truces, Law of Nations)

• Applied Physics, Neuromorphic Photonics, and Ising Machines

• TEMPORALAW Project (Law)

• Large Language Models, Innovation, and Science

• Software Development, Data Acquisition, and Advanced Imaging (Postdoc)

• Other engineering and social science related research areas

Scholarship Benefits

Selected candidates receive:

• Full funding for the duration of the PhD or Postdoc position

• Monthly research grant/stipend to cover living expenses in Brussels

• No tuition fees (PhD positions are typically employment‑based)

• Access to world‑class research facilities at a top European university

• International and diverse academic environment

For applicants interested in other research fellowships in the region, see Switzerland's latest scholarships in 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

For PhD Positions

• Relevant Master’s degree in the chosen field

• Strong academic record and research motivation

• Good English language skills (Dutch may be required for some roles)

• Specific skills such as programming or quantitative methods for certain projects

• Meet university employment rules and visa requirements (if applicable)

For Postdoc Position

• Completed PhD in a relevant discipline

• Strong publication record and research experience

• Good English language skills

How to Apply – Step by Step

Step 1: Visit the official VUB careers or vacancies page (typically vub.be/en/jobs or the specific faculty websites).

Step 2: Browse the available PhD and Postdoc positions. Each position has its own application deadline – pay close attention to the dates.

Step 3: Prepare your application package, which typically includes:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Cover letter (motivation letter)

• Research proposal (if required)

• Copies of degrees and transcripts

• Contact details of referees

• Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)

Step 4: Submit your application online through the VUB recruitment portal before the specific deadline for your chosen position.

Step 5: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Note: Because deadlines vary (earliest 29 May 2026), apply as soon as possible. Late applications will not be accepted.

For additional financial aid options across Europe, explore financial aids for students in Europe.

Why Choose Vrije Universiteit Brussel?

• Top‑ranked university – VUB is a leading research university in Brussels, the heart of Europe.

• International environment – More than 100 nationalities represented on campus.

• English‑friendly – Many PhD programs are conducted entirely in English.

• Research excellence – VUB has strong links with European institutions, industry, and research networks.

• Quality of life – Brussels offers a vibrant, multicultural city with excellent transport links.

Final Thoughts

Vrije Universiteit Brussel offers a fantastic opportunity for international PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers to conduct cutting‑edge research in Belgium with full funding. With no application fee and multiple fields available, this is an excellent chance to advance your academic career.

Check the VUB vacancies page, select a position that matches your expertise, and apply before the deadline. For a complete list of open PhD positions and scholarships in Europe, visit list of all open scholarships in Europe.

Apply Now for VUB PhD and Postdoc Positions