Leiden University – Institute of Security and Global Affairs (ISGA)
Listed on Orbital Diplomat 27 Jul 2026
The Institute for Security and Global Affairs (ISGA) at Leiden University hosts Europe's largest Intelligence and Security research group, led by Dr. Damien Van Puyvelde, and is seeking an Assistant Professor with complementary expertise to strengthen its teaching, research, and grant-acquisition capacity. The group's research portfolio is directly relevant to the space and intelligence intersection: it covers the politics and governance of intelligence in democratic and authoritarian contexts; legal, ethical, and societal norms shaping intelligence practices; technological challenges in intelligence production, analysis, and dissemination; covert influence and weapons proliferation; and intelligence cooperation and the role of alliances in international relations. Space domain awareness, satellite intelligence, national technical means, counterspace operations, and the governance of space-based intelligence collection are natural extensions of this research agenda — making this position highly suitable for scholars working at the nexus of space and intelligence studies. The postholder will teach across the Intelligence and Security track of the Master's in Crisis and Security Management, the Minor in Intelligence Studies, and the Bachelor's in Security Studies; conduct independent research; supervise dissertations; and build external funding. The initial contract is one year with a view to permanency. Residency in the Netherlands is required.
PhD in Security or Conflict Studies, Criminology, Political Science, Public Administration, International Relations, Psychology, Law, or a relevant adjacent field Demonstrable research experience engaging with intelligence or intelligence-related questions, broadly understood Strong publication record in international peer-reviewed journals Demonstrable excellence in research-led teaching across security-related themes Ability to teach across a variety of security topics at Bachelor's and Master's level Excellent command of English; willingness to achieve C1 Dutch proficiency within two years Demonstrable command of a diversity of research methods Growing network of academics and professionals in security and intelligence communities Ability to connect academic research to policy-oriented and societal impact Residence in or willingness to relocate to the Netherlands Application materials: motivation letter (max 2 pages), CV with publications list, sample publication, names and contact details of three referees