PhD in Behavioural Science, Ethics and Organisational Compliance at Utrecht University and AFM Utrecht University in Netherlands

Call for applications for a PhD position in the Netherlands at Utrecht University in collaboration with the Autoriteit Financiële Markten (AFM). The project sits at the intersection of psychology, behavioural science, organisational behaviour, ethics, and compliance, with a strong applied focus on how supervision and interventions can motivate organisations to act responsibly.

The PhD topic is: “Afraid of a fine or motivated to do the right thing? How do supervisory organisations make their interventions more effective?” The research explores motivation, behaviour change, self-determination theory, compliance versus intrinsic motivation, ethical decision-making, and behavioural interventions in organisations. Methods mentioned include field experiments, surveys, interviews, vignette studies, and other behavioural studies.

The position is a joint PhD between Utrecht University and AFM. The candidate will be employed by Utrecht University and also work within AFM’s Behaviour and Culture team, spending part of the week on doctoral research and part on practical supervisory activities. The project is designed to connect academic research with real-world regulatory practice and policy impact.

Eligibility highlights: a completed Research or academic Master’s in social sciences or behavioural economics, preferably social and/or organisational psychology; strong English and Dutch; experience with quantitative and qualitative research; strong SPSS skills, with R as a bonus; good communication and presentation skills; and a clear interest in ethics, compliance, and organisational behaviour.

Funding and benefits: this is a paid PhD with salary from €3,059 to €3,881 per month at Utrecht University, plus holiday allowance and year-end bonus. AFM also offers a salary range of €3,500 to €5,500 gross per month, plus a 13th month, holiday allowance, transport coverage, home-working allowance, training opportunities, and other benefits.

Deadline: 15 May 2026. Start date: October 2026 (flexible). Apply via the official portal only with a CV, motivation letter with references, and a thesis or recent paper.