The Institute for History at the University of Leiden invites applications for:

1 Postdoc Position (0,8 fte, 30 months): ‘Human Development and Its Outliers’

Project description:
This project envisions a broad evaluation of 20th century models of human development over the life course (ontogenesis, human constitution), including socialist and capitalist conceptions across both Eastern and Western Europe. It asks how these models of human life course were developed, including what stages of development are defined, and what ‘proper’ paths each model of development dictates along these stages. Taking into consideration the social and economic environments in which these models were developed, it further evaluates how ‘outliers’ - i.e., individuals differing from the median of human development because of age, disability, physical, or mental capacity - have been incorporated into or excluded from these different models. Finally, it asks how different models may have influenced each other over the course the 20th century and what influence these models - and their interactions - have had on conceptions and programmes of social welfare.

We are looking for a candidate who will evaluate models of human development by reconstructing UN programmes and activities related to ageing and human development since the 1960s. Based on research in the archives of United Nations and its specialized agencies such as the World Health Organization, the postdoctoral researcher will study the international debates about ageing and lifespan. Within the project, this specific international history will be embedded in broader and longer histories of human development models, as investigated by the other project team members in Western and Eastern Europe (project leaders and PhD candidate) and by other scholars who will contribute to a planned workshop and edited volume/special issue.

Key responsibilities:

• Conducting research on international ageing policies
• Writing two to three articles to be published in peer-reviewed journals;
• Teaching in Leiden University’s History BA and MA Programmes and/or International Studies BA;
• Presenting intermediate research results at workshops and conferences;
• Co-organizing international workshop;
• Co-organizing the publication of an edited volume/ special issue.

Requirements:

• A PhD degree, preferably in international history and/or history of medicine. If the degree is not yet obtained at the time of application, the date of the PhD defence should be set before 1 September 2024. A confirmation of this is required from your university/institute. a statement by the applicant’s supervisor should confirm that it will be obtained by time of appointment;
• Familiarity with (the history of) international organizations;
• One or more relevant publications;
• Strong research and writing skills;
• Ability to work both independently and as part of an (international) team;
• Excellent command of English. Knowledge of other languages is an asset.

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 a 0,8 fte position for initially one year. After a positive evaluation of the progress of research, personal capabilities and compatibility the appointment will be extended by a further 1,5 years. The salary will be between €3226 and €4332 gross per month for a full appointment (scale 10 - 11.0) 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 %), and training and career development. The 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

Information
For more information, including a description of the project, contact dr. Paul van Trigt (p.w.van.trigt@hum.leidenuniv.nl) and/or dr. Isaac Scarborough (i.m.scarborough@hum.leidenuniv.nl).

Applications:
Applications should be submitted in English and include a:

• Cover letter;
• Research proposal (maximum 400 words), which states how you would approach the themes of the project, what particular research you would propose to conduct, and how your experience would help you to do research in this direction.
• Curriculum vitae, including publications (if applicable);
• Copy of the introduction or a chapter of your PhD thesis, or a relevant publication.

Applications should be submitted no later than 19 May 2024 via the blue button in our application system. All requested documents should be sent in PDF format.

An interview with the search committee is part of the procedure. Interviews will take place on 4 and 7 June. A list of two referees (with email addresses and phone numbers) will be required at a later stage of the application. You do not need to enter details about referees at this stage.