Are you interested in understanding how societies respond to conspiracy theories and declining public trust? A major European Research Council (ERC) project is now recruiting three PhD candidates in Sociology to explore how public institutions react to growing distrust across Europe. This is a rare opportunity to conduct impactful research on one of today’s most urgent societal challenges while being embedded in a leading academic environment.
In an era marked by misinformation and declining trust in institutions, this research sits at the intersection of sociology, politics, and communication studies. It provides an opportunity to contribute to both academic knowledge and practical solutions for democratic resilience.
About the Research Project
The ERC Consolidator Project “Dealing With Distrust: How Public Organizations Respond to Conspiracy Theories” investigates how institutions such as media, science, government, and education respond to disinformation and skepticism toward authority.
Rather than focusing solely on individuals who question official narratives, this project shifts attention toward institutions themselves. It examines how their responses may amplify, transform, or reduce societal distrust.
Led by Dr. Jaron Harambam, the project adopts a comparative European approach across:
- The Netherlands
- Italy
- Poland
Each PhD candidate will focus on one country, contributing to a broader comparative framework.
Key Details at a Glance
- Positions Available: 3 PhD roles
- Field: Sociology / Social Sciences
- Funding: Fully funded (4 years)
- Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 per month
- Location: Amsterdam (with fieldwork in home country)
- Start Date: October 2026 (preferred)
- Application Deadline: May 5, 2026
Research Focus and Responsibilities
As a PhD candidate, you will design and conduct an independent research project within the broader ERC framework. The role combines academic rigor with real-world engagement.
Core Responsibilities
- Conduct ethnographic and qualitative research within public organizations
- Analyze how institutions perceive and respond to distrust
- Collaborate with an international research team
- Publish academic articles (individually and jointly)
- Present findings to academic and non-academic audiences
- Teach undergraduate Sociology courses (up to 10% workload)
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and research activities
This position offers a balance between independent research and collaborative scholarship, ideal for candidates seeking both intellectual autonomy and structured guidance.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The project seeks candidates who combine analytical depth with openness and adaptability.
Essential Requirements
- Master’s degree in Sociology or related fields (e.g., Anthropology, Political Science, Public Administration, STS)
- Strong interest in qualitative or ethnographic research methods
- Familiarity with topics such as conspiracy theories, disinformation, or institutional trust
- Excellent English communication skills
- Fluency in Dutch, Italian, or Polish (depending on position)
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience conducting research in public institutions
- Existing networks in sectors such as media, government, public health, or education
Research Environment and Training
You will be based in a dynamic academic setting within a Cultural Sociology research group consisting of approximately 20 scholars, including senior academics and early-career researchers.
The project team includes:
- Principal Investigator
- Three PhD candidates
- A postdoctoral researcher (joining later)
You will benefit from:
- Structured PhD supervision
- Access to international conferences and training programs
- Collaborative research design and interdisciplinary exchange
Salary and Benefits
This fully funded position offers competitive financial and professional support:
- Monthly salary ranging from €3,059 to €3,881
- 4-year contract (initial 1-year term with extension upon evaluation)
- Opportunities for international research and collaboration
- Professional development through training and conferences
Application Process
To apply, candidates must submit a single PDF file including:
- Two-page academic CV
- Two-page motivation letter
- Academic transcripts
- Contact details of two referees
- Important: Additional materials (writing samples, PhD proposal) will only be requested if shortlisted.
- Applications must be submitted by May 5, 2026, and interviews are expected in June 2026.
- APPLY NOW
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this PhD fully funded?
Yes, all three positions are fully funded for four years, including a competitive monthly salary and research support.
2. Do I need prior experience in ethnographic research?
While not strictly mandatory, experience with qualitative or ethnographic methods is strongly preferred and will strengthen your application.
3. Can international students apply?
Yes, but applicants must be fluent in the language of the country they will research (Dutch, Italian, or Polish).
4. How much time will I spend outside Amsterdam?
You will spend a significant portion of your research (at least one year) conducting fieldwork in your selected country.
5. Is teaching required?
Yes, but it is limited to a maximum of 10% of your workload.
6. What makes this project unique?
This project focuses on how institutions, rather than individuals, respond to distrust—an innovative perspective in current sociological research.
7. When will the PhD start?
The preferred start date is October 1, 2026.
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