Postdoctoral researcher on applications of AI in sociological research

The Department of Sociology is hiring a postdoctoral researcher on computational sociology with a focus on applications of artificial intelligence in sociological research.

Your job
In this postdoctoral position, you will explore the possibilities of applying novel AI techniques in sociological research, and contribute to bolstering the department’s expertise on the effective and responsible use of such techniques. As a postdoc, you will be expected to pursue your own research interests in the field of applied AI. In addition, you will also be expected to proactively pursue collaborations with other researchers in the department (on existing and new) research projects, and to improve these projects with applications of AI. While you will be based in the research line Computational Sociology, but you will collaborate across the department’s various research lines. Your goal will be to expose researchers in the department to the possibilities that new AI-based techniques have to offer, and together explore both opportunities and limitations of such techniques for sociological research. In addition, you will organize activities to familiarize the department with the latest developments in applications of AI in social science research. The position will also include minor teaching responsibilities of up to 20% of your time.

We are looking for a candidate with strong methodological knowledge and expertise in the field of AI who is eager to share such expertise with the broader research community and who enjoys contributing to collaborative projects. You are not only an expert in your field but also have an interest in substantive sociological questions and a broad understanding of the logic of quantitative social science research.

The ideal candidate has:

• A PhD in applied statistics, data science, computer science, social science methodology, or related fields, with a focus on applications of artificial intelligence in research;
• Experience with applied quantitative social science research, including familiarity with methods and tools (e.g., statistical software such as R and Python) common in social science;
• A strong track record in collaborative research, including the ability to work in diverse and changing teams, as well as familiarity with Open Science collaborative workflows.

• a job for 1 year with possibility to extend to 18-24 months (depending on starting date);
• a working week of 36 - 40 hours and a gross monthly salary between €3,546 and €5,538 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale 10 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU);
• 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 laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences is one of the leading faculties in Europe providing research and academic teaching in cultural anthropology, educational sciences, interdisciplinary social science, pedagogical sciences, psychology, and sociology. Almost 7,000 students are enrolled in a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programmes. The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences has some 1,100 faculty and staff members, all providing their individual contribution to the training and education of young talent and to the research into and finding solutions for scientific and societal issues.

The faculty is located at Utrecht Science Park near the historical city centre of Utrecht.

For more information, please contact Rense Corten at r.corten@uu.nl.

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.