PhD Position in Generative AI, Reading Comprehension, and Self-Regulated Learning in Education Erasmus University Rotterdam in Netherlands

PhD Position: Generative AI in Education at Erasmus University Rotterdam

The Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on the integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) in secondary education, specifically targeting feedback processes to support students’ reading comprehension and self-regulated learning (SRL). This position is part of the AI-Regulate project, funded by the Dutch Knowledge Institute for Education (NKO), and is situated within the Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences (ESSB).

Research Focus: The project investigates how GenAI can assist teachers in providing effective feedback to secondary school students, enhancing their reading comprehension and SRL skills. The research adopts a participatory, design-oriented approach, involving close collaboration with teachers to co-develop and empirically test GenAI-supported feedback practices. The project is structured in two phases: qualitative studies with teachers to identify needs and co-design feedback practices, followed by empirical classroom studies to assess the impact on students.

Supervision and Team: The PhD researcher will be supervised by Dr. Bjorn de Koning, Dr. Annemarie Neeleman, Dr. Sergey Sosnovsky, and Dr. Jacqueline Wong, all based at Erasmus University Rotterdam. The interdisciplinary team includes collaborators from Utrecht University, Hogeschool Rotterdam, and CVO Rotterdam.

Eligibility: Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in educational psychology, educational sciences, educational technology, or a related field. Proficiency in Dutch is required, as the research is conducted in the Dutch context, and English at C1 level is also necessary. Experience with both quantitative and qualitative research is preferred, but motivation to learn both is acceptable. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to independently structure research projects and collaborate effectively in transdisciplinary teams.

Funding and Benefits: The position is fully funded for four years, with a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881 (full-time, scale P, CAO-NU). Employment is 0.8–1.0 FTE, with an initial one-year contract extendable upon satisfactory performance. Benefits include 41 days paid leave (for a 40-hour contract), 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension contributions, insurance discounts, travel and home office compensation, and support for international staff (visa, 30%-ruling, Dual Career Programme).

Application Process: Submit your CV and motivation letter via the EUR application portal before 24 April 2026. The selection process includes two interviews in early May. For inquiries, contact Dr. Bjorn de Koning at [email protected].

Keywords: Generative AI, Education, Reading Comprehension, Self-Regulated Learning, Educational Technology, Feedback, Secondary Education, Learning Sciences, Participatory Research, Classroom Innovation.