Researcher in Sociology

Catholic University of Leuven

Researcher in Sociology
(ref. BAP-2023-304)
The proposed research project is in line with the LESEC research theme “Study Career Guidance” which aims at improving the first-year experience in STEM education, by developing tools and interventions to improve academic career guidance.

Project

The PhD student will investigate the social and academic integration of new first-year students in STEM, and the challenges students from so-called minority groups (pioneer students, female students, career learners...) experience when transitioning to higher academic STEM education. To this end, the doctoral student will:

  • develop and validate instruments to measure social and academic integration of students
  • collect quantitative and qualitative data on social and academic integration in students, both before and after the implementation of innovative interventions designed to improve the social and academic integration of new freshmen in STEM
  • to investigate the effectiveness of these different interventions, and the effect on well-being and perceived support in the aforementioned minority groups.
  • optimize these innovative interventions to improve their effectiveness

Profile

  • You obtained a Master's degree in a STEM domain, combined with a strong interest in education and inclusiveness, or you obtained a Master's degree in Pedagogical Sciences, combined with a strong interest in STEM. You obtained this diploma with distinction (cum laude). Graduating Master's students who will graduate in 2023 may also apply.
  • You are highly motivated, meticulous and creative.
  • You have a solid knowledge of statistics and excellent communication and planning skills.
  • You have an excellent knowledge of English and good notions of Dutch. A good knowledge of Dutch is recommended. Notions of French are a bonus.
  • Jen can work independently, but is also a good team player.

offer

  • Provided that the project on social and academic integration is approved (decision at the end of June) and thus project funding is obtained, a shortlist will be made based on the profile of the candidates. Selection interviews with the shortlisted candidates are scheduled for Friday 7th July 2023.
  • The candidate who is finally selected will receive a PhD grant for a period of 2 years, which can be extended to a maximum of 4 years after a positive evaluation.
  • The start date of the PhD position is at the latest on October 1, 2023.

Interest?

More information is available from Prof. Dr. Carolien Van Soom, tel.: +32 16 32 72 83, mail: carolien.vansoom@kuleuven.be.

You can apply for this vacancy until 26/06/2023 via our
KU Leuven wants to create an environment in which all talents can develop to the maximum, regardless of gender, age, cultural origin, nationality or disability. If you have any questions regarding accessibility or support options, you can contact us at diversity.HR@kuleuven.be.
  • Employment percentage : Full-time
  • Location: Leuven
  • Apply before: June 26, 2023
  • Tags : Pedagogical sciences
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