PhD Position: Social Influences: Are you passionate about exploring the interplay between digital media use and mental health? We are seeking a highly motivated PhD student to investigate the impact of social influence processes on the relationship between social and mobile media use and mental health outcomes. This research project aims to unravel how societal perceptions of digital media as potentially harmful affect individuals’ well-being.
Designation: Promotieplaats
Research Area: Communication Science
Location: University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Education Level: Master’s degree in communication science or a related social science field (e.g., psychology, sociology, etc.), or an expectation to obtain it soon.
- An interest in topics related to the digital society or communication technology.
- Demonstrated interest in quantitative methods, with experience in data donations, experience sampling methodology (ESM), and/or longitudinal analyses as a plus.
- Proficiency in handling complex datasets.
- Evidence of English language proficiency through thesis work or presentations.
Job Description: As a PhD candidate, you will work on three interrelated studies as part of this project:
- Develop a questionnaire to examine how various social influence mechanisms, such as direct communication or media reporting, affect users’ perceptions of their social media use (e.g., problematic or not).
- Conduct a daily diary study to investigate how social influence shapes users’ perceptions of their social and mobile media use in everyday life.
- Implement an experience sampling study to compare the impact of users’ perceptions of social and mobile media use to their objectively measured usage on mental health.
What You Will Do:
- Create, field, and analyze a representative survey study to assess the role of social influence on social media perceptions.
- Review and synthesize the literature on the impact of perceived social and mobile media use on mental health outcomes.
- Design, conduct, and analyze intensive longitudinal data studies assessing social influence processes directly in everyday life.
- Write up findings for publication in high-impact scientific journals and present them at (inter)national conferences.
What You Need to Offer:
- Curiosity, creativity, and a willingness to learn from different disciplines.
- Proficiency in quantitative data analysis and the ability to learn new techniques.
- Eagerness to explore new digital data collection methods.
- Resilience in dealing with the challenges associated with new methodological approaches.
- Strong organizational and time management skills with meticulous attention to detail.
- Ability to balance multiple tasks, including research and teaching.
- Independence, proactivity, and a can-do attitude.
What We Offer You:
- Planned starting date: February 1, 2024.
- Temporary employment for 38 hours a week for a maximum of 4 years.
- The initial employment is for one year, with the possibility of extension up to 36 months upon a positive assessment.
- A curriculum including training courses, national and international events, and the opportunity to teach (Bachelor’s) students (10% of the contract).
- A monthly gross salary starting at €2,770 in the first year, increasing to €3,539 in the final year, based on full-time employment and in accordance with the Collective Labor Agreement of Dutch Universities.
- Additional benefits, including an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
What We Offer:
- A position that values initiative and input.
- An enthusiastic and welcoming team that embraces new colleagues.
- An inspiring academic and international working environment in the heart of Amsterdam.
About Us: The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, offering a wide range of degree programs. With 39,000 students, 6,000 employees, and 3,000 doctoral students, we foster a culture of inquisitive minds.
About the Faculty: The Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences is committed to addressing major societal challenges through research in the social and behavioral sciences, playing a leading role in the world, the Netherlands, and Amsterdam.
Questions: For any questions or additional information, please contact:
- Lara Wolfers, Assistant Professor, l.n.wolfers@uva.nl
Job Application: If you match the job profile, please submit your application by November 23, 2023, using the online application link.
Your application in one bundled .pdf in the CV* box on the next page should include:
- Curriculum vitae.
- A letter of motivation (max 2 pages) outlining your preparation and interest in pursuing this PhD project. Be specific in describing how you meet the selection criteria.
- (Unofficial) undergraduate and graduate transcripts.
- An academic writing sample in English (e.g., journal article, Master’s thesis, Bachelor’s thesis).
Last Date for Apply: November 23, 2023
Here is a table summarizing the key details:
| Job Title | PhD Position: Social Influences on Digital Media’s Effect on Mental Health |
|---|---|
| Research Area | Communication Science |
| Location | University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Application Deadline | November 23, 2023 |
| Type of Contract | Temporary employment for up to 4 years |
| Job Status | Full-time |
| Starting Date | February 1, 2024 |
| Salary | €2,770 per month (1st year) – €3,539 per month (final year) |
| Additional Benefits | 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus |
| Contact | Lara Wolfers, Assistant Professor, l.n.wolfers@uva.nl |
For more information about the University of Amsterdam and the Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, visit University of Amsterdam and Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences.
