This position is no longer available.
University: University of Bourgogne Europe and University of Glasgow
Country: France, United Kingdom
Deadline:
Fields: Literature, Translation Studies, Digital Humanities, History, Language Sciences
Are you passionate about the intersections of literature, translation, and digital humanities, and eager to contribute to cutting-edge research on cultural exchange in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries? If you aspire to a career in academia or cultural heritage, this joint doctoral position offers a unique opportunity to develop advanced research skills, work internationally, and make a significant scholarly impact.
The University of Bourgogne Europe and the University of Glasgow are jointly offering a fully-funded PhD studentship as part of the prestigious Marie-Curie Sklodowska Doctoral Network Scheme, within the DECADOCS project (DECADOCS – This position provides a rare chance to engage in interdisciplinary research, benefit from international supervision, and access extensive training and networking opportunities across Europe.
About The University Or Research Institute
The University of Bourgogne Europe, based in Dijon, France, is renowned for its robust programs in the humanities, fostering academic excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. It has a longstanding tradition of innovative research and international cooperation, particularly in European studies and cultural history. The University of Glasgow, located in Scotland, UK, is one of the world's leading research universities, with a global reputation for excellence in the arts and humanities. Both institutions provide a vibrant academic environment, access to world-class resources, and a supportive community for doctoral researchers.
This joint doctoral programme will see the successful candidate spending time at both universities, as well as undertaking secondments at IMEC (Abbaye d'Ardennes) in France and Cadenza Academic Translations in Exeter, UK. This structure ensures a rich, diverse academic experience and exposure to leading research environments in both France and the United Kingdom.
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Research Topic and Significance
The doctoral research focuses on the publication of translations in French and English literary periodicals from 1880 to 1914, with a particular emphasis on the concept of Decadence. Decadence, a translinguistic and interlinguistic phenomenon, played a crucial role in shaping literary and cultural movements at the fin de siècle. By investigating the translation and dissemination of Decadent literature in periodicals, this project aims to illuminate the mechanisms of cultural transfer and the evolution of literary trends across national boundaries.
The project is highly relevant in today's context, as it not only deepens our understanding of historical literary networks but also leverages digital humanities tools to create innovative research outputs. The creation of a comprehensive database of translations, a prosopography of translators, and interactive digital maps will provide invaluable resources for future scholars, translators, and students. Additionally, by developing criteria for Decadent translation, the project seeks to enrich translation studies and upskill the next generation of translators.
Project Details
The PhD project is supervised jointly by Dr. Bénédicte Coste (University of Bourgogne Europe) and Dr. Matthew Creasy (University of Glasgow). The successful candidate will split their doctoral studies between France (2025/6–2027) and the UK (2028–2029), benefiting from the expertise and resources of both institutions.
Key Components Of The Project Include
– Creation of a database cataloguing translations in 1000 French and British periodicals (1880–1914)
– Establishment of a prosopography of translators, including women translators
– Development of an interactive map for scholars and students
– Production of criteria for Decadent translation to advance translation studies
– Two periods of secondment at IMEC (Abbaye d'Ardennes) and Cadenza Academic Translations (Exeter, UK) for additional training and support
The DECADOCS network, comprising ten universities across Europe, provides an extensive program of doctoral training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and opportunities to present at conferences and publish scholarly outputs.
Candidate Profile
This Position Is Ideal For Candidates With a Strong Academic Background And a Passion For Interdisciplinary Research. The Ideal Applicant Will Have
– An MA degree in the humanities (literature, history, translation, or digital humanities)
– Near-native proficiency in both English and French (additional languages are a plus)
– Availability to work in Dijon, Glasgow, Exeter, and Caen
– Strong research and academic writing skills
– Interest in late-nineteenth/early-twentieth-century history and literature, especially periodical literature
– Curiosity, problem-solving abilities, and willingness to engage with non-academic audiences
– Strong digital skills
Desirable qualifications include experience in archival research and the creation of digital databases. The position is open to candidates of any nationality, and applications from underrepresented groups (Global Majority students) are particularly welcomed.
Eligibility Criteria For MSCA Doctoral Networks
– Applicants must not have a doctoral degree at the date of recruitment
– Must not have resided or carried out main activity in the country of the recruiting organization for more than 12 months in the 36 months before recruitment
– Must be enrolled in a doctoral programme during the project
Language Requirements
– Excellent written and spoken English and French
– For non-English-speaking applicants: IELTS Academic 7.0 overall (no subtest less than 7.0) or TOEFL 100 overall (minimum in each component specified)
– All tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of the start date
Application Process
The application deadline for this position is 20 October 2025. Applications should be submitted as per the instructions in the official advertisement.
Required Documents
– Cover letter outlining motivation and relevant competencies
– Up-to-date CV with details of BA and MA degrees
– Copies of diplomas and transcripts (BA and MA)
– Contact information for two academic references
– Evidence of proficiency in academic English (sample of academic writing from MA)
– Names and contact details of two referees
– Sample of academic writing
– Proof of ID (passport, identity card)
– Declaration of Honour confirming eligibility criteria
Selection process is merit-based and follows the European Commission's Code of Conduct for Researchers. Online interviews will take place from 17 to 22 November 2025.
For more information and to apply, please refer to the official advertisement at:
Conclusion
This joint doctoral position offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in pioneering research at the intersection of literature, translation, and digital humanities, while benefiting from the resources and expertise of two leading European universities. If you are driven by intellectual curiosity and a desire to advance knowledge in the humanities, do not miss this chance to further your academic career in a supportive and dynamic international environment. Interested candidates are strongly encouraged to apply and explore other similar opportunities listed below.
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