Postdoctoral Researcher in Social Psychology

Postdoc Position in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Are you interested in how norm violations emerge and spread in groups? Are you passionate about emotions and (non)verbal communication? Are you looking for a challenging job in a dynamic setting?

The Psychology department of the Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences of the University of Amsterdam is looking for a postdoc to join a large NWO-funded research project led by Prof. Dr. Gerben A. van Kleef (PI) at the Social Psychology group.

The project aims to investigate the social dynamics of (counter)normative behavior. Adherence to social norms is crucial for community functioning, yet norm violations abound. Despite longstanding interest in social norms, current science struggles to predict when violations are contained or spread due to a lack of focus on emotional dynamics.

The team will develop a novel theoretical model of the emotional dynamics of (counter)normative behavior, which will be tested in two complementary work packages. This position pertains to Work Package 2, focusing on emotional and behavioral responses in group settings.

What are you going to do

The job involves developing and executing cutting-edge research on the emotional dynamics of (counter)normative behavior in groups. Responsibilities include:

• Reviewing literature on social norms and norm violations.
• Designing and conducting studies to examine emotional dynamics in groups.
• Managing data collection processes.
• Creating and coding transcripts and video footage.
• Learning and applying statistical procedures for analyzing group data.
• Writing high-quality scientific papers.
• Organizing and presenting at conferences.
• Performing a small amount of teaching.

What do you have to offer

The successful candidate meets the following requirements:

• A PhD degree in social psychology or a related discipline (completed by May 2025).
• Experience with high-quality experimental research.
• Affinity with interactive group studies.
• Experience in investigating social dynamics over time.
• Proficiency in coding transcripts and video/audio records.
• Excellent writing skills and interest in research publication.
• Independence and attention to detail.
• Outstanding organizational and communication skills.
• Willingness to learn and grow in research.
• Availability to start around February-May 2025.

What can we offer you

• A temporary appointment (three years) at a leading academic department.
• A supportive and communicative team environment.
• An innovative and creative academic environment.
• A stepping stone towards independent research.

Employment ranges from 30 to 38 hours per week for a maximum term of three years, with an initial employment of one year. Depending on experience, salary ranges from € 4.492 to € 6.148 gross per month, based on a 38-hour work week.

Secondary benefits include an 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

What else do we offer

• A position valuing initiative and input.
• An enthusiastic team open to new colleagues.
• An inspiring academic environment in the heart of Amsterdam.

About us

The University of Amsterdam, the largest in the Netherlands, provides a challenging work environment with ample scope for development. The social and behavioral sciences play a leading role in addressing societal challenges.

Questions

For questions or additional information, contact Prof. Gerben A. van Kleef at G.A.vanKleef@uva.nl.

Job Application

If you recognize yourself in the job profile, submit your application by Friday, October 25th, 2024. Online interviews with shortlisted candidates will start on Wednesday, November 13th, 2024, followed by on-site interviews on Wednesday, December 4th.

Applications should include, in a single .pdf document:

• A concise statement of motivation (500 words max).
• A statement regarding your fit for the position (300 words max).
• A full academic CV, including publications.
• One first-authored published paper and one working paper.
• Contact information for two academic references.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer prioritizing diversity and inclusion. We value enquiry, provide space for questions, and promote creativity.
- The HR Team, University of Amsterdam