5 Full-Time PhD Positions: The Centre for Logic and Philosophy of Science at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel is offering 5 full-time PhD positions for a research project titled “Contra Isaac Newton: British Anti-Mathematical Criticism of Newton’s Natural Philosophy and the ‘New Science’, 1650-c.1750”. This project aims to explore the historical resistance against Newton’s natural philosophy and the broader ‘new science’ through a systematic analysis of anti-mathematical criticism.
5 Full-Time PhD Positions on British Anti-Mathematical Criticism of Newton’s Natural Philosophy
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Vrije Universiteit Brussel |
| Eligibility/Qualification | Master’s degree in relevant field, strong team player, proficient in English, knowledge of early modern science or philosophy, analytical and hermeneutical skills, optional Latin proficiency |
| Description | 5 PhD positions to study the resistance against Newton’s natural philosophy in both philosophical and poetic contexts |
| How to Apply | Email application package to steffen.ducheyne@vub.be |
| Last Date to Apply | 30 September 2024 (may be extended until positions are filled) |
Location
Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Centre for Logic and Philosophy of Science
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s Degree: Must hold a relevant Master’s degree by the contract start date.
- Team Player: Must demonstrate commitment to collaborative research.
- Language Skills: Proficient in both written and spoken English.
- Knowledge: Familiarity with early modern science or philosophy is desirable.
- Analytical Skills: Exceptional hermeneutical and analytical abilities.
- Optional: Proficiency in Latin is advantageous for specific subprojects.
Description
The project investigates the dissemination and resistance to Newton’s natural philosophy and the ‘new science’ from 1650 to 1750. This includes a systematic analysis of the anti-mathematical critiques in two contexts:
- Natural Philosophy and Philosophy: Focusing on critiques from figures such as Thomas Hobbes, Kenelm Digby, Margaret Cavendish, and George Berkeley.
- Poetry: Examining anti-mathematical criticism within British poetry.
Four PhD dissertations will cover the philosophical critiques, and one will explore the poetic critiques.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application via email to steffen.ducheyne@vub.be. The application package must include:
- CV: Detailing relevant experience.
- Transcripts: For Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
- Letter of Recommendation: Highlighting the candidate’s skills and suitability.
- Writing Sample: 20-30 pages.
- Research Statement: 1-2 pages outlining how past research aligns with the project and proposing a research plan.
Last Date to Apply
The deadline for applications is 30 September 2024. The deadline may be extended until all positions are filled.
Starting Date: The anticipated start date is between November 2024 and January 2025.
Position Details: The initial term is two years, renewable for an additional two years upon positive evaluation.
This project is funded by the Special Research Fund of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. For further information, please contact steffen.ducheyne@vub.be.
