"Postdoc IC-YOU Project: Evaluation of Communication Trainings (0.8 FTE)"

Job Summary

One in three youths aged 12 to 25 experiences emotional problems such as depression and anxiety. In the IC-YOU research project, an interdisciplinary team investigates how conversations with trusted adults can enhance youth resilience. This 3-year postdoc project involves evaluating and improving communication trainings, such as e-learnings and chatbot modules, in collaboration with societal partners to reach hundreds of thousands of youths annually.

Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will study the effectiveness of training programs that teach adults how to engage in supportive conversations with youths about their feelings. You will evaluate two existing programs: an e-learning for community members and a chatbot training for volunteers. This includes conducting Randomized Controlled Trials, observations, interviews, and surveys. You will investigate for whom, when, and under what conditions these trainings are most effective, and publish scientific papers on the findings. You will work closely with societal partners, educational institutions, and youths, translating insights into practical solutions. One day per week, you will work at a societal partner location to share knowledge and contribute to intervention effectiveness research. Additionally, you will dedicate 10% of your time (more if agreed) to teaching in the Pedagogical Sciences program at Erasmus University Rotterdam, with Dutch as the language of instruction.

Qualifications and Requirements

You have a nearly completed or completed PhD in social or behavioral sciences (e.g., pedagogical sciences, developmental psychology, clinical psychology, or sociology). You are proficient in Dutch at a professional level and English at an academic level. You have demonstrable experience with (quasi-)experimental designs, RCTs, or effect evaluations, and expertise in youth and young adult mental health prevention. Excellent analytical skills and experience with quantitative data analysis (e.g., R, SPSS, Mplus) are required, along with a willingness to learn new techniques. You work independently and in teams, manage projects proactively, communicate scientific insights effectively, adapt creatively to changes, and maintain a balance between big-picture thinking and attention to detail. You are enthusiastic about teaching.

What the Employer Offers

The position offers a 0.8 FTE contract for one year, extendable to three years upon satisfactory performance, starting no later than December 1, 2025. The salary ranges from €4,537 to €6,209 gross per month for a full-time appointment (38 hours), based on the Dutch university collective labor agreement. Benefits include excellent work-life balance options such as flexible working, 41 vacation days for a 40-hour week, 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and discounts on campus sports. You will work in a sustainable, inclusive, and diverse environment with opportunities for professional development, a good pension, insurance discounts, and support for relocation and dual careers. Parental leave benefits and on-campus childcare are available.