Fully funded research role seeks social science researcher to develop innovative risk communication models across Europe
Wageningen University & Research has announced a postdoctoral opportunity for researchers interested in disaster risk governance, climate resilience, and participatory approaches to community preparedness.
The Postdoctoral Position on Societal Disaster Risk Preparedness will contribute to the Horizon Europe-funded AMPLIFY project, which explores how creative and participatory methods can improve disaster preparedness and climate resilience across European communities.
The position is based in Wageningen, Netherlands, within the Landscape Architecture and Spatial Planning group at the School of Environmental Sciences. Applications close on 17 July 2026.
Researcher will explore how communities prepare for climate-related risks
The postdoctoral researcher will join an international, interdisciplinary team working at the intersection of science, governance, society, and the arts.
The AMPLIFY project aims to strengthen disaster preparedness by improving risk communication and encouraging inclusive participation in resilience planning.
The research will focus on how creative methods can support communities facing risks such as:
- Flooding
- Storm surges
- Wildfires
- Other climate-related hazards
The project seeks to ensure that disaster preparedness strategies include groups often overlooked in traditional approaches, including people with lower literacy levels and communities with fewer economic resources.
AMPLIFY project combines research, arts and community engagement
The successful candidate will work with a European consortium involving researchers, artists, government authorities, emergency responders, and social organisations from several countries.
The project includes Creative Hubs in:
- The Netherlands
- Ireland
- Italy
- A European Youth Camp Hub involving multiple countries
Through these hubs, researchers will support communities in developing new approaches to understanding risks and preparing for emergencies.
The postdoctoral researcher will act as an embedded researcher, connecting academic research with creative experimentation and local action.
Role focuses on developing the Preparedness Pathways model
A central responsibility of the position will be contributing to the development of the Preparedness Pathways model.
The model aims to provide local and regional authorities with practical guidance for improving disaster preparedness through stronger collaboration between institutions and communities.
The researcher will use approaches including:
- Participatory action research
- Creative experimentation
- Future-oriented methods
- Creative policy dialogues
- Systems thinking
The work will involve analysing experiences from different Creative Hubs and translating lessons into recommendations for European disaster preparedness policies.
Key responsibilities include research, coordination and publishing
The appointed postdoctoral researcher will contribute to both academic research and practical project activities.
Main responsibilities include:
- Analysing creative, artistic, and cultural approaches to disaster preparedness
- Conducting stakeholder interviews and workshops
- Supporting co-creation and validation activities
- Coordinating Creative Hub activities in the Enschede region
- Building relationships with local partners
- Publishing findings in peer-reviewed journals
- Presenting research outcomes at conferences and project meetings
The role offers opportunities to develop an independent academic profile while contributing to an international research programme.
Candidates need expertise in risk governance and qualitative research
Wageningen University & Research is seeking candidates with a strong background in disaster risk governance, climate resilience, or related social and environmental sciences.
Applicants should have:
- A PhD in risk governance, spatial planning, environmental sciences, social sciences, or a related field
- Strong experience with qualitative research methods
- Experience conducting interviews, ethnography, workshops, or action research
- Experience with participatory, transdisciplinary, or co-creation processes
- Ability to collaborate with communities, policymakers, authorities, and creative professionals
- Strong academic writing skills in English
Candidates who are close to completing their PhD are also encouraged to apply.
Dutch language skills required for community engagement
Because the role involves working with local stakeholders, candidates are expected to have strong Dutch communication skills.
Required language abilities include:
- Dutch proficiency at CEFR level B2 or higher
- English proficiency at a minimum B2 level
The researcher must be able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences, ranging from community members to policymakers and academic audiences.
Position offers competitive salary and academic development opportunities
Wageningen University & Research offers a range of employment benefits, including professional development opportunities and flexible working arrangements.
The position includes:
- Gross monthly salary between €3,546 and €5,538 for a full-time 38-hour working week
- A year-end bonus of 8.3%
- Pension benefits
- Sabbatical leave and study leave opportunities
- Flexible working arrangements
- Access to campus sports facilities
The initial contract is for one year, with the possibility of extension by 20 months based on performance.
A contract of 0.8 FTE may also be discussed.
International applicants supported with relocation
International researchers joining Wageningen University & Research can receive support with relocation and immigration procedures.
The university provides assistance with:
- Visa applications
- Housing guidance
- Banking arrangements
- Dual career support
- Schooling information for families
Eligible international employees may also qualify for certain Dutch tax benefits.
Applications close on 17 July 2026
Researchers interested in contributing to innovative approaches for climate resilience and disaster preparedness are invited to apply.
Applications must be submitted through the official Wageningen University & Research recruitment website.
Position: Postdoctoral Researcher – Societal Disaster Risk Preparedness
Location: Wageningen, Netherlands
Employment: 32–38 hours per week
Salary: €3,546–€5,538 per month
Application deadline: 17 July 2026
For position enquiries, candidates can contact Assistant Professor Karin Snel at [email protected].
The first interviews are scheduled for 21 and 23 July 2026.
