PhD Position in Experimental Sociology

Do you want to apply innovative methods to study fundamental sociological questions?

Deadline 1 Nov ’25

Published 10 Oct ’25

Vacancy ID 4920

Job description

Our ability to address societal crises is limited by a lack of understanding of the complex behavioral processes involved, in particular the interplay between social cohesion and cooperative behaviour.

Your job

This project addresses the methodological limitations faced by scholars and policymakers in evaluating the behavioural components of these complex dynamics, leveraging innovative infrastructure to run large-scale behavioural experiments within panel surveys. By combining the strengths of experimental research and surveys, we address limitations of traditional lab studies. The project will equip policymakers with a scientifically validated tool to evaluate policies aimed at resolving urgent societal issues.

In this PhD project you will design and conduct innovative sociological experiments in which respondents of panel surveys participate in online interactions. These experiments will be designed to make maximal use of the large heterogeneity of survey respondents, the rich data already available in the sample and the possibility to study larger groups to develop and test novel hypotheses on cooperation, trust, and social cohesion. Later in the project, you will collaborate with policy makers to co-develop experiments designed to validate intended policies.

During the PhD, you will:

• Gain expertise in theory-driven empirical sociology
• Learn to design and carry out behavioural experiments using state-of-the-art methods and infrastructure
• Develop strong skills in data analysis and critical thinking
• Grow into an independent scientist while expanding your knowledge through your own research
• Contribute to a collaborative, enthusiastic, and respectful research environment in the Department of Sociology and the interuniversity research school ICS.

Requirements

You are interested in answering fundamental sociological questions using state-of-the-art quantitative methods. Furthermore, you possess:

• A Master's degree in sociology or related field, including (but not limited to) social psychology or economics
• A strong background in quantitative methods
• Resourcefulness and good organizational skills

Furthermore your suitability is ideally exemplified by:

• Experience in the use of experimental methods
• Some programming experience, preferably in Python

Conditions of employment

• a job for 1 year, with an extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment;
• a working week of 36 - 40 hours and a gross monthly salary between € 3,059 and € 3,881 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU);
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

Employer

Universiteit Utrecht

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences is one of the leading faculties in Europe providing research and academic teaching in cultural anthropology, educational sciences, interdisciplinary social science, pedagogical sciences, psychology, and sociology. Almost 7,000 students are enrolled in a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programmes. The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences has some 1,100 faculty and staff members, all providing their individual contribution to the training and education of young talent and to the research into and finding solutions for scientific and societal issues.

The faculty is located at Utrecht Science Park near the historical city centre of Utrecht.

Additional information

For more information, please contact Rense Corten by r.corten@uu.nl.

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.