PhD: The Effects of Polarization Panic and Migration on Social Cohesion Utrecht University in Netherlands

This PhD position at Utrecht University investigates the impact of polarization panic and migration-related misperceptions on social cohesion within local communities. The project is situated in the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Department of Psychology, and forms part of the SOCION consortium, which addresses societal fragmentation and the erosion of social cohesion. The research focuses on neighbourhoods as everyday environments where residents encounter diversity, measuring the gap between perceived and actual attitudes toward migration and analyzing its consequences for both majority and minority residents.

Public debates on migration are often framed as confrontations between 'pro' and 'anti' positions, reinforcing the idea of a deeply divided society. This phenomenon, termed polarization panic, is driven by misperceptions of conflicting attitudes, where individuals overestimate the gap between their own migration attitudes and those of others. The project aims to fill two key gaps: understanding the effects of these misperceptions on local social cohesion—specifically trust, belonging, and willingness to cooperate—and developing interventions to correct misperceptions in ways that strengthen community bonds.

The research will be conducted through a field study in six Dutch neighbourhoods, directly comparing perceived and actual attitudes about migration. By linking these perceptions to behavioral and contextual indicators such as voting patterns, neighbourhood composition, and participation in local initiatives, the project will identify where misperceptions occur, their magnitude, and their consequences for social cohesion. Indicators assessed include neighbourhood involvement, perceived threat from neighbours, participation in volunteer work, frequency of social contact, and sense of belonging or community.

In collaboration with local stakeholders, the project will develop and test an intervention to correct misperceptions, aiming to foster more inclusive communities. Deliverables include a theoretical and empirical framework explaining how misperceptions undermine social cohesion, an intervention co-developed with stakeholders, and practical recommendations for municipalities, civil society organizations, and policymakers.

Applicants should have an MA/MSc in social psychology, with interest and ideally some familiarity with sociology. Strong methodological skills, especially in surveys and field experiments, are required, along with professional competence in English (Dutch is a plus). The position offers a one-year contract, extendable to four years upon successful assessment, with a gross monthly salary ranging from €3,059 to €3,881, plus holiday pay, year-end bonus, pension scheme, and flexible employment terms. Utrecht University also provides professional development opportunities and a supportive, inclusive environment.

To apply, candidates must submit a CV, motivation letter, writing sample, and transcript of grades from their (research) master's degree via the university's application portal. Online interviews are scheduled for 10-16 April, with on-site interviews between 17-23 April. The preferred start date is 1 September 2026, and the application deadline is 1 April 2026. International candidates requiring a visa/work permit should allow at least four months for processing after selection. For further information, contact Dr Belle Derks at [email protected] or visit her academic profile.