Researcher/Project Assistant for Digitization

We are looking for an enthusiastic colleague to help implement our work program on the theme of Digitalization. This theme addresses questions such as: How can the digital society best safeguard various public values and human rights, such as privacy and non-discrimination? What are the consequences for society of the dominant position held by a few large technology companies? And how can the responsible use of digital technology contribute to reliable public administration and well-considered democratic decision-making?

What you will be doing

As a researcher in the field of digitalization, you will be part of the team focused on the social responsibility of tech companies. Over the coming year, you will be involved in a study examining the role of disinformation on social media in fostering distrust in science. Other projects in which you may play a role involve the impact of new technologies, such as neurotechnology, on public values, and dialogues about the design of tomorrow’s digital society.

You will work closely with other colleagues on projects related to the work program and for external clients. You will contribute to reports, memos, and articles for policymakers, politicians, researchers, and the general public. You will share responsibility for organizing various research and dialogue activities, engaging a wide range of stakeholders from across society, including businesses, citizens, government agencies, and researchers.

As part of your research, you should also follow and participate in social and political debates, for example through lectures, panel discussions, and (online) articles.

What you bring

You are a recent graduate with up to two years of work experience.

Relevant fields of study include (but are not limited to) Political Science, Political Economy, Science and Technology Studies, European Studies on Society, European Governance, Innovation Studies, Economics, or Philosophy.

You have training in qualitative and/or participatory research methods and are a strong writer. You enjoy working on a project basis. You are familiar with the political and social debate surrounding the platform society, the data economy, and/or big tech. You are driven to contribute to this debate and have an affinity for taking a constructively critical approach to digital technology. Some tech savvy is a plus, as is experience with new research methods and/or co-design.

Experience with the societal implications of technology and/or digitization is also a plus. An interest in (geo)political relations and power dynamics is as well. We are looking for someone who enjoys translating research insights into broader societal impact in a creative way. Strong social and communication skills and fluency in Dutch are required.

Feel free to apply even if you have a different academic background but still meet the rest of the requirements.

What we offer

• A two-year temporary appointment with the possibility of extension to a permanent position;
• Depending on education and work experience, the salary for a full-time position ranges from a minimum of €3,226 to a maximum of €5,090 (scale 10 of the NU Collective Bargaining Agreement) gross per month, excluding 8% vacation pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• A workplace in The Hague that is easily accessible, with the option to work partly from home;
• Work-from-home facilities;
• Ample opportunities for professional development, including relevant training programs or short courses;
• The opportunity to be closely involved in the public debate surrounding the impact of new technologies;
• The ability to propose and carry out research and dialogue projects in conjunction with the work program and in consultation with others at the institute;
• The opportunity for researchers to experiment with new, creative forms of research and dialogue.

Additional information/apply

Requesting references and completing a short work assignment may be part of the application process. If you feel you do not meet the job requirements, we still encourage those new to the job market to apply.

Would you like to know more?

For more information about the position, please contact Dr. Mariëtte van Huijstee, coordinator, at m.vanhuijstee@rathenau.nl. For more information about the Rathenau Institute and its work program, please visit www.rathenau.nl.

Application Process

Please submit your application, including a cover letter and resume, by January 29, 2024, via our careers page.

The first round of interviews will begin on February 5, 2024.

About the Rathenau Institute

The Rathenau Institute is dedicated to research and debate on the impact of science, innovation, and technology on society.

The Rathenau Institute studies developments in science and innovation and the ways in which society is involved in or affected by them. Based on this research, the Rathenau Institute informs the public, policymakers, and politicians, thereby contributing to the social and political debate on science and technology in society. The Rathenau Institute is independent in terms of content and is administratively affiliated with the KNAW.

Terms of Employment

Depending on your education and experience, the salary ranges from a minimum of €3,226 to a maximum of €3,298 gross per month for full-time employment (scale 10 of the Collective Labor Agreement for Dutch Universities/KNAW) . This does not include 8% vacation pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, travel allowance, internet and remote work allowance, and pension contributions to the ABP.

The KNAW offers its employees an excellent benefits package. This package is designed to meet the diverse needs of employees, depending on their stage of life, lifestyle, or career aspirations. For example, by working two extra hours per week, employees can increase their annual leave from 29 to 41 days (for full-time employees).

For a complete overview of the terms and conditions of employment, please visit the webpage: Working at the KNAW.

Diversity & Inclusion

The KNAW considers a work environment where everyone feels welcome and valued to be of the utmost importance—a work environment that focuses on individual strengths and prioritizes opportunities for professional development. Together, we strive to foster an inclusive culture in which we embrace our differences. We therefore invite candidates who, through their background and experience, wish to contribute to this. When candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given to the candidate who strengthens diversity within the KNAW in this way.

We do not welcome unsolicited sales calls regarding this advertisement.