This PhD position at Utrecht University offers a unique opportunity to join the ERC-funded Care2Act project, which investigates the intersection of activism and mental health across different scales of social change. Hosted by the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Department of Social Sciences, the project explores how individuals and communities maintain well-being while engaging in collective action, focusing on local, identity-based, and climate-related social movements.

As a PhD candidate, you will conduct qualitative fieldwork with two activist communities, preferably in the Netherlands or Germany, using innovative methods such as observation, interviews, and participatory approaches like Ripple Effects Mapping. The research aims to understand how care, strategy, and collective action interact during societal crises, and how activists regulate their mental health and well-being. You will contribute to theoretical and empirical research, resulting in a PhD dissertation and journal publications, and participate in teaching and research activities within the Public Health chair of the department.

The Care2Act project integrates psychological and sociological perspectives, applying a novel interactionist approach to activism and mental health. It seeks to identify combinations of situations and processes during civic engagement that contribute to varying mental health outcomes, and to analyze strategies employed by individuals and communities to regulate well-being. The project’s multi-level comparative approach and participatory methods will provide tools for interdisciplinary research, inform public health interventions, and support the social integration of marginalized groups. Societal impact is anticipated by equipping activists with strategies to integrate mental health awareness into their work.

The research team is led by Assistant Professor Dr. Anna Zhelnina and includes the principal investigator, a PhD candidate, and two postdoctoral researchers. The position is fully funded by the European Research Council (ERC), offering a gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881 (full-time), 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment terms. The initial contract is for one year, with extension to four years upon successful assessment. Utrecht University also provides professional development opportunities and a supportive, inclusive academic environment.

Applicants must hold or expect to obtain by July 31, 2026, a Master’s degree in social sciences, sociology, anthropology, social psychology, or related disciplines. An excellent academic record, enthusiasm for research, and familiarity with qualitative research methods are required; candidates willing to learn these methods are also welcome. Experience with participatory methods is an asset. Proficiency in English (C2 level) is mandatory, and knowledge of Dutch, Russian, or German is preferable for fieldwork. Strong planning, organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are essential.

International candidates requiring a visa/work permit should note a minimum four-month processing time after selection. Utrecht University values diversity and strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all staff. Knowledge security screening may be part of the selection process.

To apply, submit a motivation letter (max 2 pages), CV, grade transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s), a writing sample, and contact information for two references via the university’s application portal. If your thesis is not in English, include a 300-word English abstract. The application deadline is 27 February 2026, with first-round interviews scheduled for the third week of March 2026.

For further information, contact Assistant Professor Dr. Anna Zhelnina at [email protected]. More details about working at Utrecht University can be found on their website.