PhD and Postdoc Positions in Educational Inequalities and Health Crises at Sciences Po

The Centre for Research on Social Inequalities (CRIS) at Sciences Po, Paris, is inviting applications for a doctoral researcher (PhD candidate) and a postdoctoral researcher to join the ERC-funded LEARN project, led by Professor Bastian Betthaeuser. The LEARN project focuses on understanding the consequences of major health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, for children's education. The research aims to uncover how disruptive events—including health crises, natural disasters, and violent conflicts—affect educational development and to identify the factors that moderate these effects. Successful candidates will join an international, collaborative team utilizing high-quality, cross-national data and advanced quantitative methods to investigate educational inequalities. The project seeks to inform policy makers and help future-proof education systems against the growing threats posed by major disruptive events. The research environment at CRIS offers access to excellent resources and a vibrant academic community focused on social inequalities and education. Applicants for the PhD position should hold a relevant master's degree (such as in sociology, education, or a related field), demonstrate strong quantitative research skills, and have a keen interest in educational inequalities and the impact of health crises. The postdoctoral position requires a completed PhD in a relevant discipline, experience with advanced quantitative methods, and a strong publication record. Proficiency in English is expected for both positions. Both positions are fully funded by the ERC LEARN project, with further details on funding, stipend, and application requirements available in the official job advertisements linked on the Sciences Po CRIS website. The application deadline for both positions is April 12, 2026. Interested candidates should visit the CRIS website, review the detailed job advertisements, and submit their applications according to the provided instructions. Keywords: educational inequalities, health crises, COVID-19, quantitative methods, social inequalities, children's education, policy, data analysis, natural disasters, violent conflicts.