"Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1 - Temporary, 01st September 2026 to 31st August 2027 (with possibility of extension)"

University College Dublin - School of Psychology

Applications are invited for a temporary post of a UCD Post-doctoral Research Fellow Level 1 within the UCD School of Psychology.

Youth in Europe may be the first generation of native EU citizens in their country; their support for and identification with Europe are essential for peace on the continent. Identity formation is an essential development task across the lifespan; yet in middle childhood and early adolescence, there is low identity complexity. Therefore, it is essential to understand how children and adolescents develop and identify with superordinate categories (e.g. being European), and the impact of those identities on individual (e.g. well-being, civic engagement) and societal outcomes (e.g. social cohesion, peace).

GENERATION EU has three aims. First, GENERATION EU will explore the development and predictors of European identity within and between countries, regions, and social groups, alongside changes over time. Second, GenEU will investigate the impact of European identity – on individual children and adolescents, as well as on society as whole. Third, a paradox of inclusion is often excluding others. GENERATION EU will trace the potential unintended negative consequences or backlash effects of European identity.

More specifically, this role will advance studies across three of GENERATION EU’s Work Package, spanning childhood and adolescence. The role will include designing, implementing and analysing a 3-wave quasi-experimental, accelerated longitudinal study in primary schools, as well as secondary data wrangling and analyses on large, cross-national datasets from dozens of countries across 4 waves on adolescent identity, school experiences, and social outcomes. This role will also entail project and lab management, data visualisation, co-supervision of research assistants, and science communication and dissemination for policy impact.

Salary range: €46,805 - €53,391 per annum

Appointment on the above range will be dependent upon qualifications and experience.

Closing date: 12:00 noon (local Irish time) on 1st May 2026.

Applications must be submitted by the closing date and time specified. Any applications which are still in progress at the closing time of 12:00 noon (Local Irish Time) on the specified closing date will be cancelled automatically by the system. UCD are unable to accept late applications.

UCD do not require assistance from Recruitment Agencies. Any CVs submitted by Recruitment Agencies will be returned.

The PD1 position is intended for early-stage researchers, either just after completion of a PhD or for someone entering a new area for the first time. If you have already completed your PD1 stage in UCD or will soon complete a PD1, or you are an external applicant whose total Postdoctoral experience, inclusive of the duration of the advertised post, would exceed 4 years, you should not apply and should refer to PD2 posts instead.

Prior to application, further information (including application procedure) should be obtained from the Work at UCD website: www.ucd.ie/workatucd/jobs