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University: University CEU Cardenal Herrera
Country: Spain
Deadline: 2026-06-15
Fields: International Law, European Law, Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy
Topic: Spain – Postdoctoral in International Law at CEU Cardenal Herrera
Fields: International Law, European Law, Political Science, Sociology, Philosophy
Position: postdoc
Country: europe
Deadline: 2026-06-15
University: University CEU Cardenal Herrera
Real Country: Spain
Main Category: social sciences & humanities
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Are you passionate about defending democracy and the rule of law in Europe, and eager to advance your academic career in a vibrant international research environment? This opportunity at University CEU Cardenal Herrera could be the next major step in your scholarly journey, offering you the chance to collaborate with leading experts and contribute to groundbreaking research on some of the most pressing challenges facing the European Union today.
About the University or Research Institute
University CEU Cardenal Herrera (UCH-CEU) is a distinguished higher education institution located in Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain. With a strong commitment to academic excellence, UCH-CEU is renowned for its innovative research and teaching across a wide range of disciplines. The university fosters a dynamic international environment, welcoming students and scholars from around the world. Its Department of Legal Sciences (Departamento de Ciencias Jurídicas) is at the forefront of research on European law, human rights, and democratic governance. UCH-CEU’s strategic location in Spain, a country with deep historical and cultural ties to the European project, provides a stimulating backdrop for research on European integration and governance.
Spain itself is a vibrant and diverse country, celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, world-class universities, and high quality of life. As a member of the European Union, Spain offers an ideal setting for international scholars engaged in research on European affairs. Living and working in Spain gives researchers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a multicultural society, benefit from excellent research infrastructure, and enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle that balances professional ambition with personal well-being.
Research Topic and Significance
The central focus of this postdoctoral position is the analysis of the ongoing crisis of the rule of law and democratic values within the European Union. In recent years, the EU has faced a series of unprecedented challenges, including the rise of extremist political movements, increasing polarization, and the proliferation of hybrid threats such as disinformation, cyberattacks, and economic coercion. These phenomena have contributed to a democratic decline that threatens the core values and stability of the European project.
The research group at UCH-CEU, collaborating with scholars from across Europe, is engaged in two major projects: “Crisis of the Rule of Law in the EU” and “Crisis of Values and Identity of the European Union: Democratic Resilience versus Hybrid Threats.” These initiatives aim to analyze the roots and manifestations of democratic backsliding in several EU member states, assess the impact of internal and external threats, and propose legal and policy solutions to strengthen democratic resilience.
This work is not only academically significant but also of urgent practical importance. The findings and recommendations generated by this research will inform policymakers, contribute to public debate, and help shape the future of European governance. By joining this project, the postdoctoral fellow will play a vital role in addressing some of the most critical issues facing European societies today.
Project Details
The postdoctoral position is hosted by the CEDRI – International Human Rights Protection laboratory within the Department of Legal Sciences at UCH-CEU. The research team is led by Professor Susana Sanz Caballero, an internationally recognized expert in European law and human rights.
The postdoctoral fellow will become an integral part of a diverse team of 25 researchers from eight universities across more than six countries, including Spain, Italy, Croatia, Poland, Hungary, Belgium, and Portugal. The fellow will participate in scientific seminars, outreach activities, and the organization of academic events. Responsibilities include delivering a scientific seminar on their area of specialization, organizing an event for the academic community, lecturing MA students, contributing to the group’s database on rule of law decline, and sharing insights from their home country. The fellow will also be expected to publish at least one international article, provide feedback to doctoral candidates, and contribute to the project’s scientific blog.
The research group values interdisciplinary collaboration and encourages the integration of perspectives from law, political science, sociology, history, philosophy, and related fields. The environment is supportive and intellectually stimulating, providing ample opportunities for professional development, networking, and international collaboration.
Candidate Profile
Ideal candidates for this postdoctoral fellowship are dynamic, proactive scholars with a strong interest in the rule of law, democratic governance, and European studies. Applicants should possess:
– A PhD in Law, Political Science, International Relations, European Studies, Philosophy, History, Sociology, or a closely related discipline (preferably).
– A proven track record of publications in relevant areas.
– Experience participating in competitive research projects, especially at the European or international level.
– Involvement in the organization or participation in international conferences and scientific events.
– Excellent teamwork and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work autonomously while contributing to a collaborative research environment.
– Strong command of English; knowledge of Spanish is an asset.
– Proficiency in IT and experience with academic blogging or science communication.
– Willingness to share expertise from their home country on issues of rule of law and democratic resilience.
Candidates of any nationality are welcome to apply. Please note that, for the MSCA-PF 2026 call, applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activities in Spain for more than 12 months in the three years immediately prior to the application deadline.
Application Process
The application process for this position is as follows:
– Submit an expression of interest including:
– A short CV (maximum 2 pages)
– A one-page research proposal
– A brief statement explaining why CEU Cardenal Herrera is the ideal host institution for your research
– Two letters of reference
– Send your application before 2026-06-05 for consideration for the MSCA-PF 2026 call. Applications received after this date may be considered for other calls after discussion with the candidate.
– For the official advertisement and to apply, please visit:
https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/hosting/msca-postdoctoral-position-international-law-and-european-law
Conclusion
This postdoctoral fellowship at University CEU Cardenal Herrera is a unique opportunity for early-career researchers to engage with cutting-edge scholarship on the rule of law and democratic resilience in Europe. By joining a vibrant international team and contributing to high-impact research, you will not only advance your own career but also help shape the future of European governance. If you are committed to defending democratic values and eager to make a difference through research, we strongly encourage you to apply.
For more opportunities like this, be sure to follow updates and explore similar positions.
Questions & Answers
Question: Who can apply for this postdoctoral position?
Any researcher with a PhD in Law, Political Science, International Relations, European Studies, Philosophy, History, Sociology, or a closely related field is eligible, provided they meet the mobility requirements of the MSCA-PF program.
Question: What is the main focus of the research group at CEU Cardenal Herrera?
The group focuses on the crisis of the rule of law, democratic decline, and hybrid threats within the European Union, seeking to analyze causes, impacts, and policy solutions.
Question: What are the benefits of living and working in Spain as a postdoctoral researcher?
Spain offers a high quality of life, excellent research infrastructure, a vibrant academic community, and a rich cultural environment. Its location within the EU makes it ideal for research on European affairs.
Question: What are the language requirements for this position?
A strong command of English is required. Knowledge of Spanish is an advantage but not mandatory.
Question: What is the application deadline?
The deadline for the MSCA-PF 2026 call is 2026-06-05. Applications received after this date may be considered for future calls.
Question: What documents are required for the application?
Applicants must submit a short CV, a one-page research proposal, a statement of interest regarding the host institution, and two letters of reference.
Question: Are there any restrictions related to previous residence in Spain?
Yes. Applicants must not have resided or carried out their main activities in Spain for more than 12 months in the three years prior to the application deadline.
Question: Where can I find the official advertisement and application instructions?
Please see the official posting at: https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/hosting/msca-postdoctoral-position-international-law-and-european-law
Want to calculate your PhD admission chances? Try it here:
https://phdfinder.com/2026/03/12/phd-admission-chance-calculator/
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