We are seeking a candidate for a PhD project titled "Cooperation, Cooperatives and Development". The project, through a historical analysis of the cooperative enterprise, seeks explanations for the drivers of stable and sustainable cooperation. The candidate will examine these issues in a comparative framework, focusing on participation in cooperative enterprises across South Asia, South-east Asia and West Africa between 1900 and the present-day. The project intends to bring together historical and sociological insights on the topic. More information about the project. 

The project is part of the transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary research program SCOOP: Roadmaps to Resilient Societies. SCOOP is a research and training centre dedicated to the interdisciplinary study of sustainable cooperation as a key feature of resilient societies. SCOOP brings together researchers of the University of Groningen, Utrecht University, VU Amsterdam, Erasmus University Rotterdam, and Radboud University Nijmegen.

Aside from research commitments, the PhD candidate is expected to participate in the SCOOP PhD Training Program. More details about the SCOOP Training Program.

We expect the candidate to have:

• completed or be close to completing a Master's degree in Economic History, History, Economics, Sociology or a related field in the social sciences;
• training in historical research and quantitative methods;
• eagerness to work in an interdisciplinary research team;
• eagerness to publish international articles and write a dissertation;
• good social and communication skills;
• excellent command of English and academic writing skills;
• (preferably) working Dutch language skills.

Candidates from abroad must fulfill conditions set by the IND to work in the Netherlands.

We offer a temporary position (1.0 FTE) for a period of 18 months. Upon a good performance and positive evaluation, the contract will be extended for the remaining period of 30 months (4 years in total). The gross salary ranges between €2,443 in the first year and €3,122 in the fourth year (scale P according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year. In addition, Utrecht University offers excellent secondary conditions, including an attractive retirement scheme, (partly paid) parental leave and flexible employment conditions (multiple choice model). For more information: 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 societal themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Sustainability.

The Faculty of Humanities has around 6,000 students and 1,100 staff members. It comprises four knowledge domains: Philosophy and Religious Studies, History and Art History, Media and Culture Studies, and Languages, Literature and Communication. With its research and education in these fields, the faculty aims to contribute to a better understanding of the Netherlands and Europe in a rapidly changing social and cultural context. The enthusiastic and committed colleagues and the excellent amenities in the historical city center of Utrecht, where the faculty is housed, contribute to an inspiring working environment.