Call for Applications: PhD Students and Postdocs – Villa Vigoni Gespräch (16-19 June 2025, Lago di Como, Italy)

The Villa Vigoni Gespräch on “Contracts and Characteristic Performance: Between Effect and Value” will take place from 16 to 19 June 2025 at Villa Vigoni, Lago di Como, Italy.

The Organizing Committee is composed of Prof. Dr. Dr. Stefan Grundmann (Humbolt University and EUI), Prof. Dr. Valentina Calderai (University of Pisa), and Prof. Dr. Fabrizio Esposito (NOVA School of Law, Lisbon). A pool of internationally renowned scholars will participate in the event.

This event aims to explore a new taxonomy of contracts based on two descriptive variables— legal effect (exchange vs. organizational contracts) and the type of value created for the creditor (self-centered vs. relation-centered)—while pursuing the normative goal of maximizing contractual value for the creditor of the characteristic performance. The project challenges conventional contract law frameworks and seeks to refine the role of characteristic creditor sovereignty as a guiding principle.

We plan to invite five junior researchers to join the event. Accommodation and traveling expenses will be covered by Villa Vigoni (additional information will be provided).

Selected participants will:

• Review key preparatory materials and complete a questionnaire before the event (approx. 60-75 minutes)

• Assist in structuring and analyzing responses to the questionnaire

• Support the facilitation of discussions and structured surveys during the event

• Engage in high-level debates on contract law and its broader implications

We welcome applications from motivated junior researchers with an interest in contract law, private international law, legal theory, and related fields.

To apply, please submit:

1. A motivation letter (max. 1 page) explaining how your research relates to the project

2. Your CV Applications should be sent via email to [email protected] by 10 April 2025.