The project builds on multiple rich panel survey datasets (with rolling cross-section components) conducted during previous elections in the Netherlands, USA, Germany and Japan.

Specifically, you will

• Conduct automated content analysis of the media and elite campaign communication and link it to panel data to test for the dynamic evolution of norms as a function of campaign negativity over time (feedback loop).
• Compare panel data to explore whether culture and the political system “sets the stage” for the effects of social norms about negativity and their consequences.  
• Conduct experimental studies on the impact of norm violations on the acceptance of negative campaigning and voting behavior.
• Write up findings for publications and present them at (inter)national conferences.

You are:

• Curious, creative, and interested in learning from different disciplines
• Familiar with quantitative data analysis in social sciences with a demonstrated ability to learn new techniques
• Resilient in the face of challenges that come
• Able to balance the demands of several tasks (e.g., combining research and teaching) successfully
• Organized, flexible, and demonstrate attention to detail
• Able to work both independently and collaboratively. You are a team player but also have a proactive attitude

You have:

• A PhD in communication science, political science, computation social science (or related disciplines) - or are expected to obtain it soon
• Strong interest in topics associated with negative campaigning or social norms
• Demonstrated experience in quantitative methods, including automated content analyses and/or handling panel data
• Advanced analytical skills preferably using in R, Stata, or Python
• Excellent proficiency in English

The planned starting date for this project is 1 April 2026 (to be negotiated). The position concerns temporary employment of 38 hours for a maximum term of 2 years including a probation period of two months. You will have the opportunity to attend training courses and both national and international events. You will also be able to build up demonstratable teaching skills as part of the 20% teaching component of the contract.

The UFO profile Onderzoeker 4 or Onderzoeker 3 applies.Your salary will range from €4,412 to €5.057 (10.5 - 11.2)  based on your experience, full-time employment and in keeping with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities. We additionally offer an extensive package of secondary benefits, including 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

What else do we offer you

• A position in which initiative and input are highly valued, with ample opportunities for scholarly and professional development,
• An enthusiastic and warm team and department that is open to new colleagues
• The possibility to join a project on a “hot” topic at the cutting edge of the literature
• An inspiring academic and international working environment in the heart of Amsterdam