Postdoctoral Researcher Position on Citizen Science and Public Trust in Science Leiden University in Netherlands

Leiden University’s Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS) invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to join a project exploring how citizen science can enhance public trust in science and foster equity in the research system. This two-year, 0.8 FTE position is funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) under the OS-NL Research on Open Science funding instrument. The research will focus on perceptions and perspectives of citizens, researchers, and policy makers who are not directly involved in citizen science projects, specifically within the domain of environmental science.

The successful candidate will conduct original research examining how citizen involvement in scientific research influences public trust, with special attention to groups historically experiencing psychological distance from science. Responsibilities include selecting relevant citizen science cases in the Netherlands, conducting exploratory interviews with project leaders, preparing and executing surveys and focus groups with non-participating citizens, and interviewing researchers, policy makers, and other stakeholders. The researcher will analyze data collaboratively with the team, publish results in academic and policy formats, and engage stakeholders through workshops, a citizen sounding board, and an advisory panel.

The interdisciplinary team includes Professor Laurens Hessels (Rathenau Instituut and Leiden University), Dr. Anne-Floor Schölvinck (Rathenau Instituut), Dr. Bastiaan Rutjens (University of Amsterdam), Kirsten Vegt MSc (RIVM), and Dr. Janneke Elberse (RIVM). The appointed candidate will join the Engagement and Inclusion Focal Area of CWTS, working within the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences, which is renowned for its diversity of research topics and teaching approaches.

Applicants must have completed or be close to completing a PhD in science and technology studies, sociology, innovation sciences, psychology, or a related discipline. Proven affinity with citizen science, experience in multi- or interdisciplinary teams, survey design and analysis, and qualitative methods (interviews and focus groups) are required. Excellent written and oral communication skills, experience with academic dissemination, and fluency in Dutch (C1) and English (C2) are essential. The candidate should demonstrate independence, proactivity, and a commitment to an open, safe, and inclusive working environment.

The position offers a salary between €4728 and €6433 gross per month (Scale 11), holiday allowance (8%), end-of-year bonus (8.3%), pension scheme at ABP, flexible working hours, a minimum of 29 leave days, options for sabbatical or paid parental leave, hybrid working within the Netherlands, home-working allowance, and provision of a laptop and mobile telephone. The contract is for 30.4 hours per week for 24 months, under the CLA of Dutch Universities.

Applications are accepted until June 18, 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the provided application link. For further information, contact Professor Laurens Hessels at [email protected]. Applications will be processed immediately. For details on the application procedure and employment conditions, visit the Leiden University website.