The Department of Child Law and Health Law warmly welcomes visiting scholars whose research aligns with the Department’s focus on international children’s rights, child law, and health law. Our work explores the full spectrum of legal, policy, and ethical questions affecting children and families. We examine how international, regional, and national legal frameworks protect and promote children’s rights, including their right to health, access to justice, protection in diverse environments, and participation in decisions affecting them. Our research addresses pressing contemporary issues such as the intersection of health law and children’s rights, bioethics and emerging technologies, children’s rights in humanitarian contexts, mental health and well-being, and access to justice for children, families and communities. We also engage in empirical and interdisciplinary studies that strengthen the implementation and accountability of children’s rights in law and practice.

Admission Criteria 

Welcoming different academic career stages 

We invite applications from Ph.D. candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and academic staff (full professors, associate professors, assistant professors, or equivalents) for temporary research visits. 

High-quality profile 

Applicants should demonstrate a strong research record and high-quality academic work relevant to their career stage. Visiting scholars will be asked to present their research during their stay. 

Research alignment 

Preference is given to scholars whose work complements and contributes to the Department’s research themes, including (but not limited to): 

• Child law; 

• International Children’s rights; 

• Health law. 

Language requirements 

Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required. Proof of proficiency may be requested. 

Funding 

Visiting scholars are responsible for securing their own funding for travel, accommodation, visa, and living expenses. 

How to apply 

Applications must be submitted in English and addressed to the Head of the Department of Child Law and Health Law, Prof. Dr. T. Liefaard via JeugdRecht@law.leidenuniv.nl 

Required documents: 

• A motivation or cover letter specifying the planned dates and purpose of the visit. 

• A research proposal or work plan (max. 3 pages) outlining your research activities and how they contribute to the Department’s work. 

• A curriculum vitae, including a list of publications. 

• An email of commitment from the home institution confirming its willingness to support and supervise the visit, and that all required documents are complete.  

• Proof of funding for the duration of your stay (funding must meet Dutch immigration requirements). 

• Information about any concurrent or previous research stays at other Leiden University departments or faculties. 

All application materials should be submitted as separate documents. 

Application deadlines 

• For visits in Autumn and Winter (September–February): Apply by March 1. 

• For visits in Spring and Summer (March–June): Apply by September 1. 

Please note that visits cannot be scheduled in July or August due to limited staff availability. 

Accommodation 

Visiting scholars are responsible for arranging their own housing. The Department cannot advise or assist with accommodation matters. Please note that there is a housing shortage in the Netherlands. We recommend: 

• Applying for housing through Leiden University’s Housing Office or Service Centre International Staff; or 

• Securing accommodation independently via the private sector. 

Expectations from visiting scholars 

Visiting scholars are expected to: 

• Actively participate in the academic life of the Department. 

• Present their research in at least one seminar or guest lecture. 

• Contribute to teaching or Ph.D. supervision activities, where appropriate. 

Note on education and university access 

Visiting scholars are not permitted to attend regular student courses. Visits may need to be postponed or canceled if Dutch government measures restrict university access.