Postdoctoral Researcher Position on Evaluating Open Science Impact and Research Culture Change Leiden University in Netherlands

Leiden University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher position focused on evaluating the impact of open science initiatives and research culture change. This two-year project, funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) under its OS-NL Research on Open Science funding instrument, aims to develop an evaluation framework for understanding how open science contributes to cultural transformation within research environments.

The successful candidate will join the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (CWTS), a renowned institute within the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences. CWTS is dedicated to advancing the practice, organization, and societal impact of science through pioneering research and data-driven analyses. The appointed researcher will work closely with Dr. Alex Rushforth (Assistant Professor) and Louise Bezuidenhout (Senior Researcher), collaborating within the Evaluation and Culture Focal Area of CWTS.

The project involves conducting three in-depth case studies of open science programs in the Netherlands. The researcher will examine how articulated values translate into practice, trace pathways from interventions to culture change outcomes, and lead comprehensive qualitative research including 25-30 semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and participant observation. The goal is to map relationships between stated open science values and observed outcomes, identify alignments and misalignments, and analyze factors enabling or constraining value realization. The researcher will also produce outputs for conferences and engage practitioners through workshops and stakeholder validation sessions.

Leiden University's Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences comprises five institutes, offering a diverse and interdisciplinary environment with approximately 7,000 students and 1,000 staff. The faculty is committed to groundbreaking research and inclusive education, providing opportunities for personal and professional development. The university is located in the vibrant city of Leiden, with flexible working arrangements and support for health and vitality.

Applicants must hold a PhD in sociology, science, technology and innovation studies, organization studies, information studies, or a related discipline. Fluency in English and experience with qualitative methods are required. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication, project management, and teamwork skills, as well as a commitment to fostering an open, safe, and inclusive working environment.

The position offers a full-time contract (38 hours/week) for 24 months, with a competitive salary (€4728 - €6433 gross per month), holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, flexible working hours, minimum 29 leave days, options for sabbatical or paid parental leave, home-working allowance, and provision of a laptop and mobile telephone. Hybrid working is possible within the Netherlands.

Applications are accepted until June 18, 2026. Interested candidates should apply via the university's application portal. For further information, contact Dr. Alex Rushforth at [email protected]. Additional details about the application procedure and employment conditions can be found on the university website.