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PhD positions: Multimodal Language Processing & Word Learning in Dutch-speaking Children

  • //applyindex.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/belgium.png Belgium
  • University/Institute Name KU Leuven
  • Attendance Type On Campus (Full Time)
  • Position DurationSee Position Description
  • Position Funding Type PhD Research Funding
  • Application deadlineMarch 23, 2026
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Position Details (PhD Research Project)

The research groups ExpORL (Experimental Otorhinolaryngology, Dept. of Neurosciences) and MIDI (Multimodality, Interaction & Discourse, Dept. of Linguistics) are launching a project that focuses on the following research question:
How do children with language processing difficulties process multimodal and non-verbal signals from a speaker while learning new words?

Within this project, we are recruiting two PhD candidates. The PhD candidates will collaborate closely, each with their own research focus.
They will conduct their research within an interdisciplinary collaboration between the ExpORL and MIDI research groups, under the supervision of Ellen Rombouts and co-supervision of Bert Oben, Geert Brône, and Inge Zink.
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Project

This project examines how children learn new words not only by listening to a storyteller but also by processing multimodal signals such as iconic gestures and gaze direction. Using eye-tracking in both real-life and digital contexts, we aim to understand how these non-verbal cues guide attention and thereby enhance the word-learning process. By assessing individual language skills in children with a language disorder and multilingual children with limited exposure to the societal language, we will map the relationship between these skills and multimodal language processing.

PhD Position 1 -- Multimodal Attention Processing:
This PhD project investigates how children distribute visual attention across verbal and non-verbal communicative signals during storytelling. You will examine:
  • children’s visual attention during storytelling using eye-tracking;
  • the impact of (digital) context on gaze behaviour and the perception of social cues;
  • differences between children with diverse language profiles.
PhD Position 2 -- Gesture–Speech Integration & Word Learning
This PhD project investigates how attention to multimodal signals contributes to word acquisition. You will analyse:
  • word-learning trajectories across repeated exposures;
  • the role of multimodal signals in language learning;
  • the impact of differences in language abilities;
  • effects of (digital) context on word-learning performance.

Profile

For PhD Position 1: You hold a Master’s degree in Linguistics or Psychological Sciences (degree obtained before 1/10/2026). Experience with eye-tracking is an asset.
For PhD Position 2: You hold a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Psychological Sciences (degree obtained before 1/10/2026). Experience with clinical language assessment is an asset.
For both PhD positions:
  • High-level Dutch proficiency is essential, as data collection involves language assessments and interactions with Dutch-speaking children.
  • A strong interest in language acquisition, multimodal communication, technology (Virtual Reality, eye-tracking), and experimental research.
  • Enthusiasm for collecting data with children across Flanders.
  • Excellent communication skills and an affinity for working with children.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, combined with creativity.
  • Flexibility and independence.
  • The ability to collaborate effectively (both within an interdisciplinary team and with the other PhD candidate).

Offer

  • A full-time, 4-year PhD position. An initial contract of one year will be provided; upon positive evaluation, the contract will be extended.
  • A competitive salary in accordance with KU Leuven regulations for PhD fellows, employed as a doctoral scholarship holder.
  • A strong focus on research, with a limited teaching load.
  • A dynamic, multidisciplinary research environment, involving collaboration across several research laboratories.
  • Opportunities for professional development, including participation in international conferences and workshops.

Interested?

Please submit your CV together with:
1. A motivation letter (max. 2 pages) in which you address the following:
- Why do you want to pursue a PhD?
- What appeals to you about this specific PhD project?
- What makes you the right candidate for this position?
2. A research-based writing sample authored by you (e.g., a scientific article, your MA thesis).
For more information, please contact Prof. Dr. Ellen Rombouts at: [emailprotected]

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.

Research Areas & Fields of Study involved in the position

Position Start Date

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