PhD Position in Geosciences Students’ Professional Identity Development Utrecht University in Netherlands

Utrecht University’s Faculty of Geosciences is offering a PhD position focused on the professional identity development of geoscience students. This research project aims to explore how educational programs can support students in developing confidence, motivation, and a clear sense of their professional trajectory. The project addresses the challenge that geography degrees do not lead to a clearly defined profession, which can create uncertainty for students regarding their future careers and affect their study success and transition to work.

The PhD candidate will investigate how geography students’ professional identity evolves during their studies, how it impacts motivation and self-efficacy, and which educational activities can strengthen this development. The research will contribute to the faculty’s ambition to enhance student development and create societal impact by fostering collaborations between students, alumni, professional societies (such as KNAG), and the wider public.

The project is interdisciplinary, connecting educational sciences, geography education, and both physical and human geography. The candidate will work closely with students, educators, alumni, and professional societies, and be supervised by Dr. Marielle Zill, Dr. Tom Wils, Prof. Dr. Maarten Kleinhans, and Prof. Dr. Tine Béneker. The candidate will join a vibrant community of ten PhD students conducting research at the intersection of geography and education within the Geography & Education Section of the Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning.

Main responsibilities include conducting mixed-methods case study research, designing and administering surveys among bachelor’s and master’s students, organizing focus groups, performing curriculum and institutional analysis, and carrying out longitudinal narrative studies. The candidate will publish results in academic and professional outlets, present findings at conferences and workshops, and support program heads in designing educational activities based on project insights. Teaching relevant courses (up to 10% of the appointment) is also part of the role.

Applicants should have a Master degree in Geography Education, Educational Sciences, Social- and Behavioral Sciences, Geosciences, or related fields. Experience with teaching in higher education is valued but not required. Candidates must be motivated, familiar with mixed-methods research, and skilled in quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. Excellent English and proficient Dutch (C1 level) are required, along with demonstrated academic writing skills. The ideal candidate is collaborative, communicative, organized, and proactive.

The position is for one year, with possible extension to four years upon successful assessment, aiming for completion of a doctorate. The salary ranges from €3,059 to €3,881 per month (full-time), with additional benefits including holiday pay, year-end bonus, pension scheme, parental leave, flexible employment terms, and professional development opportunities. Utrecht University offers a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging personal and professional growth.

To apply, submit your application via the Utrecht University portal, including a motivation letter, CV, writing sample, and contact details of two referees. Recommendation letters are requested only for shortlisted candidates. The application deadline is 7 June 2026.

For further information, contact Dr. Marielle Zill at [email protected].