Are you passionate about psychological research, particularly in the fields of Clinical and Developmental Psychology? The Developmental Psychology programme group at the University of Amsterdam is seeking a dedicated PhD candidate to join an innovative mixed-method project focused on adolescents’ identity development in context. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who is ideally fluent in both Dutch and English, capable of working independently, and has a strong interest in clinical research.
A Mixed-Method Approach Investigating Identity Development and its Link with Psychopathology
Adolescence is a critical period for identity development. To adaptively navigate the transition to adulthood and experience psychosocial well-being, adolescents need a stable, coherent and positive sense of identity. Despite its importance, the key characteristics and mechanisms of identity development remain underexplored, limiting our understanding of how identity formation unfolds and relates to psychopathology. This project seeks to address this gap by using both quantitative and qualitative research methods to investigate which aspects of identity develop during adolescence and emerging adulthood, the personal and contextual factors that shape this process, and how these factors contribute to the emergence of psychopathology or the adoption of a mental illness identity. With the increasing influence of social media on identity exploration and development, this project also investigates identity formation across both offline and online realities, examining how these interactions influence identity integration or fragmentation. As part of the research team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to this work under the guidance of a team of assistant and associate professors who bring expertise in adolescence, identity development, key intra- and interpersonal factors in adolescence, and mixed-method research.
What are you going to do
As a PhD candidate on this project, you will:
- Conduct a comprehensive review and synthesis of literature on identity development during adolescence and emerging adulthood, with a particular focus on the content of identity and its relationship with mental health;
- Design and oversee a longitudinal study with three assessment waves, including recruiting adolescents and emerging adults from secondary schools and universities across The Netherlands;
- Lead a qualitative study incorporating a diary study and in-depth interviews to capture nuanced, real-time insights into identity development;
- Analyze both quantitative and qualitative data, and disseminate findings through peer-reviewed scientific journals, practice/policy outlets, and presentations at (inter)national conferences;
- Teach and supervise students within the Developmental Psychology programme group.
What do you have to offer
To successfully carry out this project, the ideal candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills and effective communication with diverse stakeholders, including researchers, participants (particularly (at-risk) adolescents and emerging adults), clinicians, and personnel at schools and universities. You must be able to work both independently and collaboratively with the supervisory team and external parties to produce high-quality scientific research. A strong sense of motivation, curiosity, and eagerness to acquire new skills in psychological research is essential, along with resilience to navigate challenges that come with novel methodological approaches. Additionally, your experience and profile should include:
- A (Research) Master’s degree in Psychology, with a preference for Clinical or Developmental Psychology, or highly related specializations;
- Strong knowledge of quantitative statistical and methodological approaches;
- Proficiency in both oral and written (academic) English; candidates fluent in Dutch will be given special consideration;
- A clinical interest in the topic and study population;
- Experience in qualitative research would be an asset.
What else do we offer you
This position is classified under the University Job Classification profile for PhD candidates (Promovendus). It is a temporary role, requiring a commitment of ±34 hours per week for a maximum duration of 4.5 years, which includes a 5% teaching load. The initial employment contract will be for one year. Following a positive evaluation and unless circumstances change, this contract can be extended for up to 42 months, leading to the completion of the PhD degree. Your gross monthly salary will start at €2.901 in the first year, increasing to €3.707 in the final year, based on full-time employment in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities (based on 38 hours/week). In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
You will be supervised by a supportive, engaged, and enthusiastic team that values initiative and input. You will have weekly meetings with the co-promotor(s) and monthly meetings with the promotor, depending on the stage of the project and the focus of the current studies. Furthermore, we will put together a curriculum, which will include opportunities for attending training courses and participating in both national and international events. The University of Amsterdam offers excellent possibilities for professional development and education, in an inspiring and international working environment located in the heart of Amsterdam.
