PhD Fellowship on Trauma in Latin American Graphic Novels

About the role

The LASTING research group at the Faculty of Arts of KU Leuven invites a highly motivated researcher to join a fully funded PhD fellowship. The project investigates how biographical graphic novels represent trauma, with a focus on Mexican cultural contexts and post‑memorial storytelling.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on the representation of trauma in graphic novels under the supervision of the project’s principal investigators.
• Collaborate with a fellow PhD candidate studying Italian post‑memorial graphic storytelling.
• Present preliminary findings at international conferences and publish results in academic journals and public‑facing outlets.
• Co‑organise events, workshops and seminars related to the research project.

Required profile

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Translation Studies, Literary Studies, Cultural Studies, Comparative Literature or a related discipline.
• Strong interest in graphic novels, visual storytelling, trauma theory, memory studies or visual culture.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Mexican history, literature and culture, with near‑native proficiency in Spanish.
• Motivation to pursue a PhD within the Faculty of Arts.

Required skills

• Academic research and analytical skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

What we offer

• Fully funded PhD fellowship covering tuition fees and a living stipend.
• Access to KU Leuven’s research facilities, libraries and international research network.
• Opportunities to present work at conferences and publish in scholarly outlets.