Postdoctoral Researcher in Inclusive Governance at Universiteit Utrecht

Institutions for Open Societies (IOS), in collaboration with Utrecht School of Governance, Faculty of Law, Economics & Governance, are pleased to announce the appointment of Prof. Ine Apapoe (Anton de Kom University) as the Prince Claus Chair under the theme: Equity from Within: Maroon Governance and the Future of Development in Suriname. We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher based in Utrecht for the period February 2027 until January 2028, co-funded by Utrecht University Fund and IOS.

The Role

In this position, you will integrate theoretical and methodological research expertise with organizational and social skills to further the objectives of the Prince Claus Chair (approximately 50-50%). The role aims to enhance high-quality academic scholarship and leverage evidence-based research focused on equity and development, particularly in Suriname, while advancing Inclusive Governance. You will collaborate closely with the Prince Claus chairholder, who will alternate between Suriname and Utrecht.

Responsibilities

Design and implement research methodologies aimed at understanding Inclusive Governance, in Suriname and beyond.
Participate in developing research proposals, instruments, designs, sampling, data collection, analysis, and report writing.
Publish and disseminate research findings to academic, public, and practical audiences through various channels.
Assume editorial responsibilities related to writing and publishing a book on public governance and administration in Suriname.

About half of your time will be dedicated to research aligned with the PCC’s goals, while the other half will focus on organizational and project support. You will be the main contact for these organizational activities and will work closely with Prof. Ine Apapoe and key stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the chair’s objectives.

Key Organizational Responsibilities

Facilitate international collaboration by organizing events.
Develop and implement activities within UU (IOS and REBO/USG) according to the PCC workplan.
Manage the chairholder's visits to Utrecht and organize events, workshops, and meetings.
Provide practical support related to proposal writing, book publishing, and other activities defined in the workplan.

Your Qualities

The ideal candidate will possess strong social and organizational skills, extensive methodological expertise, cultural awareness, and the ability to collaborate in an international academic environment. Knowledge of and/or experience in Suriname is advantageous.

Successful candidates will have the following qualifications:

Ongoing or completed PhD in a relevant field.
Written and oral fluency in Dutch and English.
Expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
A strong interest in governance, institutions, equity, and development from a global perspective.
Experience with interdisciplinary research projects.
Strong social and organizational skills, including project management and event coordination.
A proactive attitude with a hands-on yet culturally sensitive approach.

Our Offer

A two-year position.
A working week of 28 - 40 hours (0.8-1 FTE) with a gross monthly salary between €3,706 and €5,760 (salary scale 10 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU)). Salary is based on a 38-hour work week.
8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus.
A pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment terms based on CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment outlined in our collective labour agreement, we offer attractive additional benefits, including opportunities for personal and professional growth, flexible leave arrangements, and extra vacation days. Through the UU Terms of Employment Options Model, you can tailor your employment package to your needs, encouraging growth in your work and development.

About Us

At Utrecht University, we strive for a better future for everyone. Our scientists are motivated by this ambition in their leading research and inspiring teaching. The various disciplines at Utrecht University collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes, including Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences, and Pathways to Sustainability.

The Faculty of Law, Economics and Governance is central to societal issues, with subjects of Law, Economics, and Governance complementing and enhancing each other. Utrecht University School of Governance studies public issues and organizations in their interaction with political and societal developments.

IOS

Institutions for Open Societies (IOS) brings together scholars from various disciplines working on key topics essential for building sustainable, open, and resilient societies.

Prince Claus Chair

The Prince Claus Chair in Equity and Development was established by Utrecht University and the International Institute of Social Studies of Erasmus University Rotterdam in early 2003 to honor Prince Claus of the Netherlands. Chairholder Ine Apapoe aims to change the way societies approach youth policy, emphasizing the importance of academic research and community knowledge.

More Information

For more information, please contact Marnix de Witte at m.a.dewitte@uu.nl.

Apply Now

At Utrecht University, we aim to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels at home. We value colleagues with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. We are committed to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all. If you have any questions about accessibility, the application process, or your work, please contact us via our HR contact page.

Knowledge security screening may be part of the selection procedures for academic staff to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology.

To apply, please send your curriculum vitae and a letter of motivation via the ‘apply now’ button.