We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who is interested in research at the intersection of psychology, education and communication science. You enjoy working in a collaborative environment in which you have the freedom to work independently, while also contributing to a shared goal. You take a mastery-oriented approach to your own learning and development and are eager to support the learning and development of more junior researchers.

Experience in climate education and communication is not essential, but would be an advantage.

Requirements:

• You hold a PhD in psychology, education, communication, prevention science or a related discipline.
• You have a proven ability to address original and innovative research questions using rigorous research methods. Experience with mixed-methods research, for example integrating participatory, co-creative and experimental methods, would be an advantage.
• You take a proactive, collaborative and creative approach to your work.
• You are flexible and have strong organisational skills.
• You enjoy working as part of a team while also being able to work independently and take ownership of your work.
• You have excellent writing and presentation skills in English; proficiency in Dutch is preferred.

As a postdoc, you will be part of the transdisciplinary FUTUREPROOF team, bringing together expertise from psychology, education and communication science, as well as from educational professionals and young people. You enjoy the challenges of working in an emerging area of research and feel comfortable working collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

You will receive mentorship to further develop your own independent research programme and build your experience in grant development.

• a job for 1 year, with possibility to extend for an additional 18 months;
• a working week of 28 - 40 hours and a gross monthly salary between €4.251 and €4.925 (salary mid scale 10, bottom scale 11 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU)). The salary is based on a 38-hour working week;
• 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 set out in our collective labour agreement, we offer attractive additional benefits, including opportunities for personal and professional growth, flexible leave arrangements, and extra vacation days. Through the UU Terms of Employment Options Model, you can tailor your employment package to your needs. In this way, we encourage you to grow in what you do, both in your work and in your development. Read more about our terms of employment.

Applications should include a (1) motivation letter, (2) full CV, and (3) copy of a publication of which you are especially proud. If you are invited for an interview, you will be asked to provide two letters of recommendation, preferably of a (former) supervisor or other academic collaborator. Send your application via the ‘apply now’ button.

The first round of interviews takes place in November 2026.

Our preferred start date is January 1, 2027.

Knowledge security screening can be part of the selection procedures of academic staff. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology.

Please note that international candidates that need a visa/work permit for the Netherlands require at least four months processing time after selection and acceptance. Our International Service Desk (ISD) can answer your questions about living in the Netherlands as international staff. Finding appropriate housing in or near Utrecht is your own responsibility, but the ISD may be able to advise you therewith. In case of general questions about working and living in The Netherlands, please consult the Dutch Mobility Portal.

For more information, please contact Prof. Sander Thomaes at s.thomaes@uu.nl

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.