Radboud University invites applications for a PhD position focused on 'Factual Belief Polarisation and its Attitudinal Consequences' within the Nijmegen School of Management. This research project investigates how polarised factual beliefs shape public opinion and contribute to broader political divides. The project addresses the increasing tendency for citizens' beliefs about reality—such as climate change, income inequality, and immigration—to align with their political orientation, leading to divisions not only in attitudes but also in perceptions of facts.

The successful candidate will examine how factual belief polarisation influences public opinion and potentially fuels affective polarisation. The research will employ both new and established experimental methods, particularly survey experiments, to explore when, how, and why factual beliefs about key societal issues impact attitudes and political divides. Results will be disseminated through international peer-reviewed journal articles and an article-based PhD dissertation.

The supervision team includes Dr. Roderik Rekker (main substantive supervisor), Dr. Hakan Çakmak, Dr. Bojana Većkalov, and Prof. Dr. Carolien van Ham. The candidate will also have a limited teaching assignment (about 5%). The Department of Political Science at Radboud University is renowned for its research in comparative politics, political theory, and quantitative and qualitative methodology, with major topics including populism, electoral behaviour, public opinion, and the legitimacy of institutions and policies. The department fosters interdisciplinary collaboration across the Nijmegen School of Management and beyond.

Radboud University offers a temporary employment contract (1.0 FTE) for 1.5 years, extendable to 4 years upon positive evaluation. The starting salary is €3,059 gross per month, rising to €3,881 in the fourth year, with an 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, extra days off, flexible working hours, pension plan, and discounts on sports and cultural activities. The university is committed to providing a supportive environment for talent development and work-life balance.

Applicants must hold or expect to obtain a Master’s degree in political science, political communication, political psychology, or a related discipline. Strong quantitative research skills, especially in survey experiments, are required, along with excellent written academic English and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. Regular presence in Nijmegen is expected. Preferred qualifications include completion or near-completion of a Research Master’s programme, advanced quantitative methods courses with good grades, and research experience in polarisation, misperceptions, or related topics.

Applications must be submitted online via the provided link, addressed to Dr. Roderik Rekker. The application form specifies required documents. Interviews will be held in the week of 6 April and will include a short oral presentation of research ideas. The preferred start date is 1 September 2026. The application deadline is 31 March 2026.

For further information, contact Dr. Roderik Rekker at [email protected].