As a Postdoc you will be based in Amsterdam, conducting research in the Gulf of Gabès, Tunisia, focusing on the case of the ‘blue crab’. You will work closely with Prof. M’charek, but also with the international team, in particular the four other Postdocs. The research is thus conducted in collaboration with this international team and will also entail organizational and management tasks.

This will include:

• conducting ethnographic research in the Gulf of Gabès;
• co-developing methodological approaches, and engaging in conceptualizing a multispecies assemblage for biodiversity governance;
• contribute to the synthesis and comparison across the two case studies and the larger Mediterranean region.
• co-organizing team-workshop and related events; biodiversity diversity walks and experimental methods (including artistic) workshops.
• undertaking administrative tasks related to the project, including reporting;
• being based in the Amsterdam area and taking an active part in team meetings and the research environment at the Amsterdam Institute for Social Science Research (AISSR).

You have:

• a PhD within the social sciences or humanities. Social and cultural anthropology, environmental humanities, and Science and Technologies Studies are preferred academic backgrounds. The degree must have been obtained before the employment starting date;
• relevant research experience, studying issues of climate change, (marine) biodiversity, pollution;
• excellent oral and written communication skills in English; as well as French or Arabic.
• excellent command of ethnographic research methods;
• independent thinking and critical analytical skills;

• excellent collaboration and teamwork skills and the ability to thrive in an interdisciplinary team

• awareness of differential distributions of power and problems of discrimination, and experience with power critical perspectives;
• good organizational skills; independent and proactive work attitude; good planning and academic writing skills.

• a strong academic record. 

You preferably have:

• previous research experience with ethnography related to (marine) biodiversity or related topics;
• previous research experience in Tunisia or the Maghreb.
• affinity with the field of Science and technologies Studies, Multispecies ethnographic methods;

The position concerns temporary employment of 30.4 hours per week (0,8 fte). Initial employment is for one year and will preferably start on 1 May 2026. Following a positive assessment and barring altered circumstances, this term will then be extended by a maximum of 23 months (for a total period of 35 months).

For this position the University Job Classification profile “Researcher” applies. Salary depends on past education and relevant work experience. 

The position also covers basic travel and research costs and provides ample opportunities to attend training courses and both national and international events.

What else do we offer

• an opportunity to work on a topic that is acutely relevant and promises to shape policy debates and international relations for years to come
• an enthusiastic international project-team and working environment
• a job in which initiative and critical thinking are encouraged and supported
• an inspiring academic and international community in the heart of Amsterdam