Publisher
source

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Postdoc in Sociology on De-Escalating Aggressive Encounters Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam in Netherlands

Degree Level

Postdoc

Field of study

Sociology

Funding

Full funding available

Deadline

Sep 30, 2026

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Country

Netherlands

University

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

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Keywords

Sociology
Psychology
Criminology
Communication Studies
Conflict Resolution
Ethnography
Violence
Statistics
Video Analytics

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About this position

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is advertising a postdoc in Sociology on de-escalating aggressive encounters between frontline workers and citizens. The project asks when and why aggression and violence against frontline workers occur, and aims to improve understanding and prevention of violence in frontline professions.

The postdoc will work in the Department of Sociology and contribute to the ORC-NWA consortium project “De-escalating Aggressive Encounters between Frontline Workers and Citizens.” The role is embedded in the VU De-Escalation lab and the Social Change and Conflict group, with collaboration across academic and societal partners.

Research tasks include developing a video observational measurement instrument, carrying out statistical analyses of situational characteristics of escalatory and de-escalatory incidents, conducting participant observations and walk-along interviews, and supporting data collection with four PhD researchers. The project focuses on micro-level environments, situational hotspots, work routines, and conflict encounters in contexts such as law enforcement, public transport, service work, and health care.

Ideal candidates have a PhD in Sociology, Criminology, Communication Studies/Science, Psychology, Crisis and Security Management, Behavioral Biology, or a related social science field. The post emphasizes experience with ethnographic methods, statistical methods, interdisciplinary teamwork, empirical research with societal stakeholders, and interest in violence, conflict, aggression, and conflict management. Experience with observations and video analysis is a plus. Dutch at B2 level and English at C1 level are required.

This is a fixed-term postdoc appointment starting around 1 January 2027, initially for 1 year and extendable by 18 months, for a total of up to 30 months at 0.8 FTE. The salary is €3,706–€4,925 gross per month on a full-time basis, depending on education and experience.

The work location is Amsterdam, Netherlands. The application deadline is 30 September 2026. Applicants must submit an academic CV including language skills and a motivation letter reflecting on teamwork and skills development. Applications sent by email will not be considered.

Funding details

Full funding including tuition fees and living expenses is available for this position. The scholarship covers all educational costs and provides a monthly stipend.

How to apply

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, academic transcripts, and contact information for two references. Applications should be sent via the online portal before the deadline.

More information can be found here

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