This project is part of a collaboration between the University of Groningen and IMD Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland and will be part of FEB’s and IMD’s research programme in the area of organizational behaviour. The purpose of the project is to examine the factors that help women succeed in powerful leadership roles. A wide body of literature explains women’s unique (and not so unique) paths to power in organizations (e.g., see the meta-analysis from Koch, D’Mello & Sackett, 2015). But we still know very little about an equally important question: once women attain power in an organization, what are the factors that support (versus detract from) their maintaining leadership? Given that women are progressing into the upper echelons of organizations (although there is still a long way to go before equal representation is achieved), it becomes more crucial and realistic to answer this question. The project will rely on a theoretical foundation of social cognition and power dynamics, and will include experimental, survey and archival research methodology.

We are looking for a candidate with a master degree (preferably a research master) in management or social science (e.g., psychology, sociology). The ideal candidate is experienced in working with quantitative research methods (experimental, survey, and/or archival research) and has some knowledge of the scientific literature on power in organizational settings and/or women and leadership. Candidates should be excellent in academic writing, should have excellent communication skills, and should be able to cooperate in a multi-disciplinary team.

Fixed-term contract: 48 months.

The University of Groningen offers a gross monthly starting salary of € 2,325 which increases yearly to a maximum of € 2,972. Based on the gross salary, you will receive an additional 8% holiday allowance each year in May, and an additional 8.3 % end of year bonus in December. The full-time appointment is temporary for a period of four years, under the condition of a positive assessment at the end of the first year.

An assessment may be part of the procedure, consisting of psychological tests and an interview.

Starting date: 1 September 2019

For more general information, please send an email to: somvacancies@rug.nl

How to apply
If you are interested, we invite you to apply until 10 March 11:59pm / before 11 March 2019 Dutch local time by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

The application package consists of the following separate documents:
1. Your cv
2. A motivation letter (1 A4 max) and a short study proposal for the PhD project (2 A4 max)
3. A scan of your diploma including transcripts
4. Proof of English proficiency
5. Other relevant documents.

The documents 1-4 are compulsory and please note that incomplete application packages will not be taken into consideration.

Unsolicited marketing is not appreciated.

Faculty of Economics and Business

Since its foundation in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Belonging to the best research universities of Europe and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, the University of Groningen is truly an international place of knowledge.

Faculty of Economics and Business
The Faculty of Economics and Business has an inspiring study and working environment for students and employees. International accreditation enables the Faculty to assess performance against the highest international standards. It also creates an exciting environment of continuous improvement. FEB's programmes, academic staff and research do well on various excellence ranking lists.

SOM, the graduate school and research institute of the Faculty of Economics and Business, along with IMD Business School, has available a PhD position for the project Women Maintaining Power.