Assistant Professor of Social Sciences

Faculty: Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences
Department: Social Sciences
Hours per week: 36 to 40
Application deadline: 20 August 2026

The assistant professor works in the Department of Sociology. We are an ambitious group of social scientists with a large variety of expertise such as on cooperation, social networks, social inequality, crime, migration, integration, families, and work. The department is part of the Dutch research school ICS. We offer a BA programme in sociology and two MA programmes: “Sociology: Contemporary Social Problems” (one-year) and “Sociology and Social Research” (two-year). The department is known for being a close-knit group. People enjoy coming to the office.

Your job

The post involves a standard combination of teaching (60%) and research (40%). If you wish to focus your career on teaching, an appointment comprising 70% teaching and 30% research is also possible. In terms of research, we are looking for a candidate with a strong track record in the fields of social inequality and/or social stratification. Preferably, the research aligns with Utrecht University’s strategic theme ‘Institutions for Open Societies’. The candidate must be versatile across our teaching programmes. Being able to teach in Dutch is, therefore, an asset. Ideally, the candidate will also demonstrate a commitment to outreach and societal impact.

Your qualities

We believe in striking a balance between individual and collective performance. That is why we assess both individual and team performance. We promote strong academic leadership at all levels. We believe in open science and strive for transparency. We encourage the sharing of research findings with society, so that we can collectively create greater impact and increase our contribution to society.

We are looking for an enthusiastic colleague who identifies with the above values and meets the following criteria:

• You hold a PhD in Sociology or a closely related discipline (or are about to complete one);
• You have an inspiring research agenda related to the following areas: social inequality, social stratification;
• You possess substantial quantitative research skills, as demonstrated in your PhD and publications;
• You are academically creative and productive, as evidenced by recent publications in international peer-reviewed journals;
• You demonstrate a commitment to the principles of Open Science, for example through the sharing of code and Open Access publishing;
• You have good interpersonal skills and are able to collaborate effectively with your colleagues;
• You have experience in academic teaching, preferably including experience in developing and coordinating academic courses, or you are able to learn this;
• You hold a University Teaching Qualification (UTQ) or are willing to obtain one in the near future;
• You speak and write English fluently at an academic level;
• Being able to teach in Dutch is an asset.

Our offer

• an employment contract for 12 months with the prospect of a permanent employment contract;
• a working week of 32-40 hours and a gross monthly salary between €4,728 and €6,433 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale 11 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU);
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

About us

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.

The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences is one of the leading faculties in Europe providing research and academic teaching in cultural anthropology, educational sciences, interdisciplinary social science, pedagogical sciences, psychology, and sociology. Almost 7,000 students are enrolled in a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programmes. The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences has some 1,100 faculty and staff members, all providing their individual contribution to the training and education of young talent and to the research into and finding solutions for scientific and societal issues.

The faculty is located at Utrecht Science Park near the historical city centre of Utrecht.

More information

For more information, please contact Ragna Senf (until August 11) by r.senf@uu.nl or Vincent Buskens by v.buskens@uu.nl (after August 11).

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.

Apply now

As Utrecht University, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.

Knowledge security screening can be part of the selection procedures of academic staff. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology.

To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation, via the 'apply now' button.

The first round of interviews takes place on September 4, 2026.

Our preferred start date is December 1, 2026.

Application deadline: 20 August 2026

In your application, please refer to Professorpositions.com