Imagine a chance to dive into how the Catholic Church has shaped environmental issues worldwide, all while earning a fully funded PhD or postdoctoral spot. The ERC-Funded CATCH Project 2026 offers exactly that. This project, based at the University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, seeks top researchers for roles in environmental humanities and political ecology.
What Is the CATCH Project?
The CATCH Project stands for “The Catholic Church and the Environment.” It receives funding from the European Research Council (ERC). The goal is to write the first full history of the Church’s work on environmental topics from the 1960s to today. This covers big changes, like Vatican II reforms and Pope Francis’s calls for climate action.
Researchers will study how the Church joined global talks on the environment. They will look at its role in United Nations debates and local activism. The project focuses on regions like Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. No religious belief is needed to join.
The Radical Environmental Humanities Hub (REH2)
Part of the project builds the Radical Environmental Humanities Hub, or REH2. This hub links environmental humanities with political ecology. It pushes for views from the global South and non-English speaking areas. REH2 will host events, teach classes, and share research to tackle ecological problems. It aims to lead in southern Europe and the Mediterranean.
Available Positions
The project has eight spots open: five PhDs, two postdocs, and one research assistant. All come with full funding, office space, travel money, and gear like computers.
Postdoctoral Researchers (2 Spots)
These roles last three years, with possible extensions. You need a PhD in fields like international relations, political science, or environmental history. Strong English and Italian skills help. One spot (PDR1) covers the Church’s global role in UN talks and Vatican work. The other (PDR2) looks at Italy’s green policies and Christian Democrats.
PhD Candidates (5 Spots)
These start in September 2026 and run four years. A master’s degree is required. Fields include history, sociology, or anthropology. English is a must, plus languages like Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, or Zulu based on the role.
- PhD1 (Brazil): Studies liberation theology, land fights, and church work in poor areas.
- PhD2 (United States): Explores environmental justice, anti-nuclear protests, and Catholic groups.
- PhD3 (Italy): Examines local Catholic groups and their green efforts.
- PhD4 (South Africa): Covers anti-apartheid battles tied to environment and mining opposition.
- PhD5 (Philippines): Focuses on anti-mining drives led by bishops.
Research Assistant (1 Spot)
This two-year role (up to five years) needs a master’s. Skills in digital tools, WordPress, social media, and archives are key. English plus Spanish or Galician required. Code: RA.
What Researchers Will Do
Everyone moves to Santiago de Compostela. No full remote work, but fieldwork is okay. Duties include your own research, team projects, writing papers, and hub events. You will publish in journals and for the public.
Benefits and Support
Salaries match university rates. You get travel funds, IT tools, and publication help. The team shares offices and resources.
How to Apply
Applications have two steps. First, send an “Expression of Interest” by April 25, 2026.
Include in one PDF:
- Cover letter
- Research or content plan
- CV
- Writing samples or portfolio
- Three referees’ contacts
Email to [email protected]. Use subject: “Expression of interest CATCH [Position Code]”.
Shortlisted people move to the full University of Santiago de Compostela process.
Postdocs and the assistant start soon. PhDs begin in fall 2026.
This project suits those who want big-impact work on environment and religion. It builds skills for global careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CATCH Project?
The CATCH Project, funded by the European Research Council, writes the first full history of the Catholic Church’s work on environmental issues from the 1960s to today, covering global talks and local activism.
What positions are available in the project?
There are five PhD spots, two postdoctoral researcher roles, and one research assistant position, all fully funded and based at the University of Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
What are the requirements for PhD candidates?
PhD candidates need a master’s degree in fields like history or sociology, strong English skills, and additional languages depending on the role, such as Spanish or Zulu.
How do I apply for a position?
Send an Expression of Interest PDF with your cover letter, CV, research plan, writing samples, and three referees’ contacts to [email protected] by April 25, 2026, using the subject ‘Expression of interest CATCH [Position Code]’.
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