Within the Mathematics Education research group (Department of Mathematics), a PhD position is available focusing on the role of mathematics teachers and their instructional practices in preventing and reducing mathematics anxiety. The Mathematics Education research group is a young research group that conducts research on the learning and teaching of mathematics at the secondary education level. The research is also embedded within the LESEC research centre, in which educational researchers from the different STEAM components (Science, Technology, Engineering, Architecture & Mathematics) collaborate.
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Project
Students who experience anxiety and tension in mathematics lessons perform less well and are less likely to choose a STEM track. This project investigates how secondary school mathematics teachers can reduce and prevent mathematics anxiety, focusing on three instructional practices.
First, students often experience mathematics as highly cognitively demanding. Therefore, the project examines how teachers can reduce unnecessary cognitive load (Load Reduction Instruction) without lowering expectations.
Second, students who struggle with mathematics sometimes resort to rote memorization of formulas and rules, which in the long term leads to helplessness.
Third, many students believe that mathematics requires innate talent, which fosters insecurity and helplessness. The project therefore investigates how growth-oriented feedback can counteract this “fixed mindset.”
The research project combines large-scale longitudinal data analyses on the long-term development of mathematics anxiety with focused analyses of micro-processes in the classroom, with particular attention to the impact of the design of instructional materials. Based on the findings, a set of practical tools will be developed, in close collaboration with the educational field, to help teachers combat mathematics anxiety.
Profile
We are looking for a motivated and eager-to-learn PhD candidate who is driven to conduct educational research on motivating mathematics education. You do not need to possess all of the competencies listed below, but you should be able and willing to develop them relatively quickly.
You hold one of the following degrees:
- A Master’s degree in Mathematics
- An Educational Master’s in Science and Technology (or a similar teacher training program), with qualification to teach mathematics
- Or a Master’s degree in Psychology or Educational Sciences, provided you have a strong interest in or experience with mathematics education; please demonstrate this explicitly in your motivation letter
Candidates who will obtain one of these degrees in July are also eligible. In all cases, you must demonstrate excellent academic results (Master’s degree obtained or to be obtained with at least distinction).
In addition, you:
- Have an interest in mathematics education and educational psychology research
- Possess a strong knowledge of mathematics at the level of secondary education
- Have an affinity with mathematics as a subject in secondary education; teaching experience is an advantage
- Have at least a basic knowledge of statistics and quantitative analyses, and a willingness to further develop these skills where needed
- Are willing to familiarize yourself with educational research methods. Prior experience is an asset, but your commitment to developing this expertise in the short term is equally important. You can count on support from your supervisor and benefit from a wide range of training opportunities
- Are willing to collaborate with the educational field, including the development of practically applicable tools, under supervision
- Have good communication skills in both Dutch and English, written and spoken, for presenting your findings at national and international forums (to teachers and researchers)
- Show initiative and a strong degree of independence. You will work within a supportive team, but the PhD is ultimately your own long-term project
The position also includes a limited teaching assignment.
Offer
It is a full-time appointment with a competitive salary as a PhD researcher, leading to a PhD in Mathematics. Funding is available for a four-year doctoral trajectory (subject to a positive evaluation after the first year).
As a PhD student, you will follow the doctoral training program at the Arenberg Doctoral School, where you will have the time and opportunity to further develop your skills and research expertise, tailored to your specific needs and interests.
Start date: October 1, 2026
Interested?
Applications should be submitted via the online application page and must include:
- Your CV and motivation letter
- An electronic version (possibly still “under revision”) of a recent research project (e.g., Master’s thesis)
- Your Bachelor’s and Master’s transcripts
- The name of one referee (e.g., your supervisor)
In your letter, describe the competencies you already possess and indicate how you plan to develop any missing ones.
More information can be obtained from Prof. Dr. Jeroen Lavrijsen
Tel.: +32 16 32 04 53
Email: [email protected]
If you are unsure whether your profile fits, you are encouraged to get in touch.
If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited for an interview on July 2 or 3.
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.
