In the Department of History at Ghent University (Belgium), one PhD studentship is available for a period of up to four years as part of a research project in the field of late antique social and political history (A.D. 300-800): “Hierarchy and equality in Late Antiquity. Subverting power relations in the later Roman Empire” (funded by the Research Fund of Ghent University, supervisors: Peter Van Nuffelen and Lieve Van Hoof). The project’s aim is to study how ideas of hierarchy and equality impacted on social relations: in the stratified society of Late Antiquity, how could people of inferior rank challenge their superiors? In this way, the project defies traditional top-down views of the Later Roman empire.

The successful applicant will possess a good master’s degree in a relevant discipline (or will possess one by 1/1/2024) and an excellent knowledge of Greek and/or Latin. The applicant should have an interest in ancient history and literature, and be willing to explore late antique philosophical and theological texts.

The successful applicant will complete a PhD within four years, the co-organise a conference, do a limited amount of teaching, and assist with other research carried out in the project.