The PhD candidates will become part of a research team on international coalitions for peace in the era of decolonization (1918-1970), led by dr. Carolien Stolte. The positions are fully funded under the ERC Starting Grant scheme (project RECONPAX, 2 positions) and the NWO VIDI scheme (project “Peace Palms”, two positions). The expected starting date is 1 September 2024.

Project description:
How did peace movements act upon the interlinked processes of decolonization and the Cold War? And how did these processes, in turn, impact the ability of different peace movements to come together in large international organizations for peace? This project studies attempts to build large international coalitions for peace in the period 1918-1970. It departs from the assumption that, while peace movements reached out to each other in pursuit of shared goals, they did not necessarily share common methods and ideas. Attempts to include organizations from the decolonizing world into existing international bodies brought different understandings of peace work to the surface.

This project brings historical depth to an issue of continuing relevance to the international order. It challenges the focus on the Cold War in relevant literatures as the primary factor in the development of international peace organizations. It does so in two ways: by taking a longue durée perspective that incorporates precedents set by peace movements after the First World War; and by turning the lens on the long decolonization process rather than on superpower competition.

The project hypothesizes that the challenges posed by decolonization and the end of empire were the dominant drivers of success and failure in building international coalitions for peace.

We are looking for candidates to focus on one of the following two overarching themes: the history of peace activism and/or conscientious objection; and the history of disarmament and/or anti-nuclear activism. The PhD projects may focus on any part of Africa and Asia. Relevant language competency is strongly preferred.

Key responsibilities:

• Completion of a PhD thesis within four years;
• Participation in meetings of the project research group;
• Presentations of intermediate research results at workshops and conferences;
• Participation in the training programme of the Graduate School;
• Co-organizing workshops and conferences.

Requirements for PhD candidates:

• An RMA or MA in History or Area Studies, held by time of appointment, with an MA thesis of high quality. If the degree is not yet obtained at the time of application, please include a statement by the applicant’s thesis advisor which confirms that it will be obtained by time of appointment;
• A demonstrable affinity with the history of internationalism, pacifism, and/or decolonization;
• Well-developed archival and research skills;
• Ability to work both independently and as part of an (international) team;
• Excellent command of English and at least one additional language. Ability to speak or willingness to learn Dutch;
• Strong writing skills.

About our organisation
Since its founding in 1575, Leiden University has acquired an international reputation for excellent teaching and research. With its staff of over 800, the Faculty of Humanities provides 26 Bachelors and 27 Masters programmes for over 7,200 students based at locations in Leiden and The Hague.

The Institute for History is the home of a vibrant community of researchers and lecturers with outstanding track records and successful in attracting national and international research grants.

Under the label ‘Global Questions, Local Sources’ scholars affiliated to the Institute combine a deep knowledge of global interactions and of specific localities, regions and states in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. They use comparative, connective and entangled approaches and resort to qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.

All researchers of the Institute for History are connected to one of the six research specializations: The Unification of the Mediterranean World (400 BC – 400 AD), Collective Identities and Transnational Networks in Medieval and Early Modern Europe, 1000-1800, Political Culture and National Identities, Colonial and Global History, Cities, Migration and Global Interdependence, and History and International Relations. For more information on the Institute for History: https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/humanities/institute-for-history/phd-programme.

Diversity and Inclusion
Leiden University’s Institute for History embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We strongly encourage individuals from underrepresented and/or marginalized backgrounds to apply.

Terms and Conditions
We offer 4 positions (2 x 0.9 fte – 2 x 1.0 fte) with a one-year probation period. After a positive evaluation of the progress of the thesis, personal capabilities, and compatibility, the appointment will be extended by a further three years. Salary range from € 2,770. - to € 3,539. - gross per month for a fulltime appointment (pay scale P, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities).

Leiden University offers an attractive benefits package with additional holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3 %), training and career development and sabbatical leave. Our individual choices model gives you some freedom to assemble your own set of terms and conditions. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Candidates from outside the Netherlands may be eligible for a substantial tax break. More at https://www.universiteitleiden.nl/en/working-at/job-application-procedure-and-employment-conditions