In the Department of History of Ghent University (Belgium), a post-doctoral position is available for four years (consisting of two two-year periods), as part of an ERC-funded research project on late antique historiography (A.D. 300-800). The project will a) establish a complete inventory of late ancient historiography; b) produce editions of fragmentary texts; c) study medieval compilations; and d) situate late-antique historiography in its cultural and literary context.

Your profile:
You possess a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline (or will possess one by 30/9/2013) and have an excellent knowledge of Classical Arabic and, if possible, knowledge of Syriac. Acquaintance with Greek and/or languages such as Coptic and Armenian constitutes an advantage. You have an interest in historiography, literature, and their wider historical and cultural context. You are able to work independently, but can also work in a team.

Your duties:
You will be given the chance to write a monograph on a topic of your own choice within the framework of the general project. You will contribute to a database of all late antique histories, co-organise workshops and a conference, do limited amounts of teaching and administrative duties, and contribute to other research carried out within the project.

Our offer:
We offer you the possibility to work as part of a high-quality team of scholars specialised in late antique and Byzantine history and literature at one of Belgium’s leading universities, a competitive salary with full health insurance, the possibility of developing a wide network and of co-supervising Ph.D. students, and the option to carry out one year or semester of your research abroad (depending on additional funding).

The succesful candidate is expected to start in 2013, preferably 1 October. S/he shall have to live in Belgium.

A full project description can be obtained from Prof. Peter Van Nuffelen (peter.vannuffelen@ugent.be). Applications, consisting of a CV, personal statement (max 1 p.), description of the research you would like to carry out within the project (max. 1 p.), the names of two referees, and a copy of your PhD thesis or a substantial article, should be submitted to the same e-mail address before 1 April 2013.