Nicolette van Veldhoven

University of Twente is advertising two research openings in the Human Media Interaction environment: a PhD position on social relationships in a sport context, group dynamics, and youth flourishing, and a Postdoc position on VR training for first responders dealing with people with unexplained/unclear behaviour. The PhD project is part of the stronger2gether NWA-route Youth project and focuses on how social relationships in sport settings can support the flourishing and mental wellbeing of young people. The research covers organised sport and broader sport contexts, including group dynamics, positive social relationships, norms of behaviour, the role of sport professionals, and the creation of a positive pedagogical sport climate. The work is embedded in the Human Media Interaction group under the chair Sport, Risks and Safety , with additional supervision from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam and collaboration with Hanze University of Applied Sciences Groningen. The project uses a mix of methods, including design-oriented research, mixed-methods evaluation, and interventions with or without a technological component. The successful candidate will contribute to scientific publications as well as practical outputs such as toolkits, conversation cards, professionalisation materials, a documentary, and a handbook for professionals. Eligibility highlights for the PhD include an MSc in sport psychology, behavioural sciences, educational sciences, or a related area; strong interest in sport and interaction technology; curiosity and analytical strength; willingness to work with youth and professionals; and good Dutch and English language skills. Experience in research or relevant practice is considered an advantage. The PhD appointment is full-time for four years, or 0.8 FTE for five years, with a qualifier in year one. Salary is listed at €3,059 gross per month in the first year up to €3,881 in the fourth year, plus standard Dutch university benefits such as holiday allowance, year-end bonus, pension, leave, and campus sports access. The postdoc vacancy is a separate University of Twente opening in the same broader environment, focused on VR training for first responders. The post mentions a full-time salary range of €3,546 to €5,538 gross per month and a deadline of 17 May 2026. Applications for the PhD position must be submitted online via the Apply now button by 16 May 2026 . Applicants should upload a CV including courses and grades, and if applicable publications and references, together with a motivation letter of up to two pages. Contact for the PhD role is Nicolette van Veldhoven at [email protected] .