Four-year PhD studentship ‘Newtonianism abounds in variety: Petrus van Musschenbroek’s experimental methodology’ (1 January 2016 – 31 December 2019; full-time) Based at the Free University of Brussels (Centre for Logic and Philosophy of Science; URL="< www.vub.ac.be/CLWF>) the project ‘Newtonianism abounds in variety: Petrus van Musschenbroek’s experimental methodology’ runs from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2019. The research project is funded by the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO). The doctoral student will conduct his or her doctoral research under the supervision of Prof. dr. Steffen Ducheyne (https://vub.academia.edu/SteffenDucheyne). Description of the research project This research project will scrutinize Petrus van Musschenbroek’s (1692-1761) physics (‘physica’, ‘natuurkunde’). Special attention will be paid to his scientific methodology, on the one hand, and metaphysics and theology, on the other. Musschenbroek was one of the most influential advocates of Newton’s natural philosophy on the Continent. Surprisingly, there are few detailed studies of his methodology, metaphysics and theology. The vast amount of his manuscripts remains heavily understudied. Following his own statements, many scholars have been led to believe that he was a follower of Newton’s methodology without, however, providing detailed justification for this claim. One of the overarching goal of this research proposal is to explicate Musschenbroek’s scientific methodology and to determine whether or not his methodology may be rightfully considered as ‘Newtonian’. The promoter of this research project has recently provided a historically detailed and systematically rich account of Newton’s methodology. In the research project at hand, this account will be used to ascertain whether Musschenbroek’s methodology was based on Newton’s methodology (and, if so, to what extent) or whether he was relying on different methodological traditions. Given its set-up, this research proposal will have significant implications for the study of 18th-century diffusion of Newton's natural philosophy in general. In addition to this, Musschenbroek’s metaphysical and theological ideas will be explored. (The extended version of this research proposal is available upon request.) Eligibility * The candidate has a strong interest in the history and philosophy of science. Although no prior knowledge of early eighteenth-century physics is required, such knowledge will be considered as a plus. * The candidate has a Master’s degree in Philosophy, Classics, History or a Master’s degree with clear affinity to the research project. * The candidate is an enthusiastic team player and is highly motivated. * The candidate is willing to travel abroad. * The candidate is willing to publish in international journals, to present his or her research at international conferences, to engage actively in departmental life and research, and to assist in the organization of workshops and conferences. * The candidate’s doctoral research leads to a PhD dissertation which is to be completed in a four-year period. * The candidate reads – if necessary, with the help of dictionaries – Dutch and Latin and is willing to present research results in English both orally and in writing. Translation work (mainly Latin to English) will be an important research activity. Offer * Opportunity to join an internationally oriented and expanding research centre – situated in one of Europe's intellectual, political, economical and cultural hubs – that runs a number of eighteenth-century projects. * A four-year contract as a full time scientific member of Vrije Universiteit Brussel. * Opportunity to follow an individualized PhD-programme at the university’s Doctoral School of Human Sciences. * Extra benefits: free public transport between home and campus, biking fee, access to university sports facilities and university restaurants. How to apply Please send (1) a cover letter describing your interest in and suitability for this PhD studentship, (2) a full curriculum vitae (including the topic of your MA dissertation and a complete list of your MA grades), (3) at least one letter of recommendation, and (4) a representative writing sample (such as an extract from your MA dissertation) to steffen.ducheyne@vub.ac.be before 31 October 2015. Short-listed candidates will be interviewed (if necessary, via Skype). A decision will be made soon after the deadline.