We are looking for a postdoc to join a new NWO-funded research project led by dr. Seval Gündemir (PI) at the Work and Organizational Psychology group of the University of Amsterdam. The project has two co-PIs: dr. Inga Hoever (Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University) and prof. dr. Janneke Oostrom (Tilburg University).

The goal of the project is investigating inclusion in academic institutions, focusing on the role of perspective integration. Perspective integration is a necessary component of an inclusive culture in academia; there is scholarly consensus on the critical role of effectively attending to and integrating different perspectives among institutional members for creating inclusive institutions. However, how such integration can emerge in a meaningful way and sustain over time is not well understood. Moreover, the current state of knowledge is deficient as it overlooks the multifaceted nature of perspective integration as well as how the different facets may have divergent inclusion-related effects depending on the power position and ethnic group membership of the involved individuals.

This project takes on the challenge of addressing this oversight to carefully examine (a) when, why, and how perspective integration promotes inclusion in academia, (b) how academic leaders can become more skilled and motivated actors to engage in effective perspective integration to directly (through own behaviors/interactions) and indirectly (through role-modeling) encourage inclusion, and (c) how perspective integration opportunities can be enhanced through small but impactful adaptations in common academic HR-practices. The project is focused on the inclusion of personnel in academic institutions, primarily those from underrepresented backgrounds.

The postdoc will take the lead in developing and executing empirical studies (which include a survey, an interview and an intervention study). Note that the intervention (i.e., a training session) can be offered by professional trainers. This means, the postdoc will oversee but not necessarily give the training sessions. The postdoc will be assisted by a research assistant, and supported by the (co-)PIs and a group of academic and non-academic stakeholders who will provide advice with regards to the scientific approach as well as on how to enhance the societal impact of the work.

What are you going to do

• review the literature on perspective integration and inclusion in academic institutions;
• conduct quantitative studies to understand the impact of perspective integration on inclusionary outcomes (in particular with respect to underrepresented employee groups);
• conduct an interview study to understand the impact of perspective integration on inclusionary outcomes (in particular with respect to underrepresented employee groups);
• set up and lead an intervention study targeting academic leaders;
• process the data using appropriate analytical procedures;
• write high-quality scientific papers together with other members of the project team;
• co-organize a kick-off and a final symposium;
• manage communications with the other stakeholders of the project (this involves scheduling regular meetings to inform the stakeholders and getting their advice);
• attend annual NWO meetings;
• present your work at national and international conferences;
• if desired by the candidate, and depending on the possibilities at the time of employment, a small amount of teaching (e.g., thesis supervision) can be done.

• a PhD degree in organizational psychology or a related discipline;
• demonstrated experience with conducting and publishing high-quality research;
• interest in the research topic;
• experience with quantitative research;
• experience with qualitative research is an added bonus;
• excellent writing skills and a genuine interest in writing papers for publication;
• outstanding organizational skills, high conscientiousness, flexibility, and a collaborative attitude;
• willingness and ability to learn and grow in all areas of research;
• excellent oral and written communication skills in English;
• excellent oral and written communication skills in Dutch is an added bonus;
• availability to start no later than September 1st 2023.

The position concerns temporary employment of 30,4 hours per week (0,8fte). The initial employment is for one year. Following a positive assessment and barring altered circumstances, this term will be extended for two year to a total duration of three years. For this position, the University Job Classification profile 'onderzoeker 3' applies.

Salary depends on past education and relevant work experience, with a minimum salary of €3974 and a maximum salary of €5439 gross per month based on a full-time appointment for a 38-hour working week (in keeping with scale 11, as per the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities). We additionally offer an extensive package of secondary employee benefits, including a generous holiday scheme and year-end bonus. Because we value your continued personal development and professionalization, we also offer excellent opportunities for study and development temporary appointment in a world-leading academic department.

What else do we offer

• a position in which initiative and input are highly valued;
• an enthusiastic and warm team that is open to new colleagues;
• an inspiring academic and international working environment in the heart of Amsterdam.

Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest spectrum of degree programmes. It is an intellectual hub with 39,000 students, 6,000 employees and 3,000 doctoral students who are all committed to a culture of inquiring minds.

A challenging work environment with a variety of duties and ample scope for individual initiative and development within an inspiring organization. The social and behavioral sciences play a leading role in addressing the major societal challenges faced by the world, the Netherlands and Amsterdam, now and in the future.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.