"2 Postdocs 'Transnational Encounters and Inequalities in the Wellness Industry in Southeast Asia'"

Job Summary: The Department of Society Studies is seeking two postdoctoral researchers to conduct in-depth ethnographic research on transnational encounters and inequalities in the wellness industry in Southeast Asia as part of the ERC-funded WELL-ASIA project. Researchers will focus on fieldwork in Chiang Mai, Thailand, or Ubud, Bali, Indonesia, examining interactions in the wellness industry involving laborers, consumers, and local communities.

Responsibilities:

• Develop a fieldwork plan, considering ethics and data management procedures.
• Conduct ethnographic fieldwork, including interviews and participant observation, in Chiang Mai or Ubud over nine months.
• Perform archival research on healing labor and analyze visual materials.
• Co-author publications, such as journal articles and book chapters.
• Participate in group meetings, organize events and workshops.
• Collaborate on a documentary film and work with visual and digital methods.
• Present work-in-progress at workshops and conferences.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Completed PhD degree in Anthropology, Geography, Sociology, or related fields in transnational mobilities, development, or Southeast Asian studies.
• Demonstrable experience with qualitative research methods, especially ethnographic fieldwork.
• Strong analytical and writing skills.
• Advanced English language competency.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Enthusiasm for collaborative team environments.
• Experience or interest in visual, creative, and multimodal methods (desirable).
• Working knowledge of relevant regional language for fieldwork (desirable, not required).

What the Employer Offers:

• Employment at Maastricht University with a salary range of €4728 to €6433 gross per month based on a 38-hour workweek.
• Initial 12-month contract, extendable up to 24 months upon positive assessment.
• Flexible working hours, possibility to work partly from home, 29 vacation days plus 4 additional public holidays, and potential for 12 extra compensation days.
• 8.0% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus.
• Opportunities for personal and professional development, including training programs.
• Good pension scheme and access to sports facilities.