PhD Position in Experimental Sociology

Our ability to address societal crises is limited by a lack of understanding of the complex behavioral processes involved, in particular the interplay between social cohesion and cooperative behaviour.

Your job
This project addresses the methodological limitations faced by scholars and policymakers in evaluating the behavioural components of these complex dynamics, leveraging innovative infrastructure to run large-scale behavioural experiments within panel surveys. By combining the strengths of experimental research and surveys, we address limitations of traditional lab studies. The project will equip policymakers with a scientifically validated tool to evaluate policies aimed at resolving urgent societal issues.

In this PhD project you will design and conduct innovative sociological experiments in which respondents of panel surveys participate in online interactions. These experiments will be designed to make maximal use of the large heterogeneity of survey respondents, the rich data already available in the sample and the possibility to study larger groups to develop and test novel hypotheses on cooperation, trust, and social cohesion. Later in the project, you will collaborate with policy makers to co-develop experiments designed to validate intended policies. During the PhD, you will:

• Gain expertise in theory-driven empirical sociology
• Learn to design and carry out behavioural experiments using state-of-the-art methods and infrastructure
• Develop strong skills in data analysis and critical thinking
• Grow into an independent scientist while expanding your knowledge through your own research
• Contribute to a collaborative, enthusiastic, and respectful research environment in the Department of Sociology and the interuniversity research school ICS.