Research Theme “Values in Finance”

We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher in philosophy, in the area of philosophy of economics, to contribute to the research theme “Values in Finance”. Within this research theme, members of the core faculty of the Erasmus Initiative will engage in (i) detailed methodological assessment of finance models and theories through the lens of key theories in the philosophy of science, social science and economics regarding scientific values, explanation, and use of models, and (ii) contribute to debates regarding the future of scientific research in finance, especially with regards to non-epistemic value concepts related to sustainability and inclusive prosperity. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to focus on stream (i) of this research theme.

The postdoctoral researcher is expected to:

• Develop the research theme “Values in Finance” together with the scientific director and core faculty of the Erasmus Initiative;
• Collaborate closely with core faculty of the Erasmus Initiative, as well as researchers in the Department of Finance of RSM and researchers at the Erasmus Institute for Philosophy and Economics (EIPE) of ESPhil;
• Conduct original interdisciplinary research at the intersection of philosophy and finance, co-authoring scientific articles to be published in leading journals in the philosophy of science, social science, and economics, in particular on the methodology of economics, on questions regarding issues such as values in science, causality, explanation, and models in relation to finance;
• Disseminate the research at international academic conferences in philosophy of science, social science, and economics as well as in finance and at interdisciplinary workshops and events;
• Co-organise events and disseminate the research in the public domain;
• Contribute to teaching courses in the philosophy of science, social science, and economics.

The successful candidate will have:

• A PhD in philosophy;
• A developing publication record with proven excellence in philosophy of science, social science, and economics;
• Expertise in the philosophy of science, social science, and economics, in particular methodology of economics –an expertise on methodological questions regarding issues surrounding values, causality, explanation, and models in economics would be particularly relevant;
• Willingness to engage with macroeconomic and finance research at a high level of detail;
• Ability and willingness to play a leading role in an interdisciplinary research team and the dissemination of research in both interdisciplinary and public contexts;
• Ability and willingness to contribute to interdisciplinary teaching;
• An entrepreneurial attitude, outstanding social skills, and ability to work in teams.

We offer a stimulating and dynamic interdisciplinary research environment, with attractive fringe benefits in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU). 80% of the position is to be devoted to research that contributes to part (i) of the “Values in Finance” research theme. 20% of the position is to be devoted to teaching in the philosophy of science, social science and economics.

The successful candidate is expected to start as soon as possible, and at the very latest on January 1, 2020. And will be based at ESPhil in Rotterdam. A full-time, three year contract with Erasmus University Rotterdam will be offered. In accordance with the conditions applied at Erasmus University Rotterdam as indicated in the Collective Labour Agreement (CAO NU) of the Dutch universities, the salary is dependent on the candidate’s experience and is set at CAO NU scale  11 with a minimum of  € 3.637,- and a maximum of € 4978,- gross per month, on a fulltime basis. In addition, EUR pays an 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year payment of 8.3% and offers excellent secondary benefits.

In addition, EUR takes part in the ABP pension scheme, and we also offer partially paid parental leave. For international spouses we have set up a dual career programme. Moreover, EUR staff members are allowed to make use of the EUR facilities, including the Erasmus sports centre and the University Library.

Erasmus University Rotterdam

The Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR), named after Rotterdam-born humanist and theologian Erasmus, is a research university with a strong international orientation and a pronounced social focus, both in its education and research activities. On the lively, modern campus, more than 28.000 students and scholars of more than 100 nationalities are constantly encouraged to develop their talents and meet their ambition. Our more than 2700 scientists and employees work together with all our students to solve challenges faced by global society, drawing their inspiration from the consistently dynamic and cosmopolitan city of Rotterdam. The academic education offered at our faculties is intensive, engaging and strongly focused on practical application. We increasingly perform our research in multidisciplinary teams, which are closely interwoven with international networks. In terms of research impact and the quality of its degree programmes, EUR can compete with the foremost universities in Europe, which is reflected in its consistent top-100 position in most major universities rankings. Erasmus University Rotterdam’s key values are daring, curiosity, social involvement, breaking new ground and striving for success www.eur.nl

Erasmus School of Philosophy

The Erasmus School of Philosophy has research strengths in a number of different areas of philosophy. It offers a three-year bachelor programme in philosophy, a one-year master programme in philosophy and a two-year research master programme in philosophy and economics. Moreover, the Faculty offers a double degree (honours) undergraduate programme for students from other faculties at the Erasmus University. In total the Faculty has about 500 students and 20 staff members. 

Erasmus Initiative ‘Dynamics of Inclusive Prosperity’

The Erasmus Initiative ‘Dynamics of Inclusive Prosperity’ focuses on enabling as many people as possible to benefit from increasing prosperity, whilst minimising the negative consequences. Increased prosperity requires constant coordination of the changing needs and values of governments, businesses, citizens and entrepreneurs. In order to chart this dynamic field, scholars from Erasmus School of Law, Rotterdam School of Management and the Erasmus School of Philosophy are entering into a multidisciplinary partnership.