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Utrecht University is offering fully funded PhD positions for highly qualified graduates through the Interuniversity Center for Social Science Theory and Methodology (ICS). These doctoral opportunities are hosted within the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences and are available across four leading Dutch universities: Amsterdam, Groningen, Nijmegen, and Utrecht.
Application Deadline: 8 March 2026
Start Date: 1 September 2026
Duration: 4 years
Location: Netherlands
About the ICS PhD Programme
The Interuniversity Center for Social Science Theory and Methodology (ICS) is an internationally recognized research center and graduate school specializing in advanced sociological research, theory development, and quantitative methodology. The PhD programme is fully taught in English and follows a structured graduate training track.
PhD candidates will join a new ICS cohort beginning in September 2026 and will complete an individual doctoral research project leading to a PhD dissertation. During the four-year appointment, candidates will combine independent research with advanced coursework in social science theory and methodology.
Research Fields and Academic Focus
These PhD positions fall within the broad field of Social Sciences, with a strong emphasis on:
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Sociology
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Social Theory
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Quantitative and Statistical Methods
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Social Research Methodology
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Behavioral and Social Analysis
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Comparative Social Research
Applicants with academic backgrounds in related disciplines are encouraged to apply, including:
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Psychology
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Political Science
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Educational Sciences
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Economics
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Mathematics
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Statistics
The programme is especially suitable for candidates interested in empirical social research, theoretical modeling, interdisciplinary social science analysis, and advanced statistical applications in social studies.
Candidate Profile
ICS is seeking highly qualified graduates who:
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Have completed or will soon complete a Master’s degree in Sociology or related Social Sciences
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Demonstrate strong analytical and research skills
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Possess quantitative or methodological expertise
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Show academic excellence and motivation for doctoral research
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Have strong written and spoken English proficiency
Graduates from interdisciplinary or quantitatively oriented backgrounds, such as Mathematics and Statistics, are particularly encouraged to apply.
Employment Conditions and Benefits
Successful candidates will receive:
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A full-time PhD appointment for four years
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A formal evaluation after the first year, with continuation upon positive assessment
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A monthly gross salary ranging from €3,059 (first year) to €3,881 (fourth year)
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8% holiday allowance and 8.3% year-end bonus
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Pension contributions and partially paid parental leave
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Flexible employment conditions under the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement for Universities
Why Choose the ICS PhD Programme?
The ICS programme provides:
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A structured graduate training environment
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Access to internationally recognized sociological researchers
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A strong interuniversity research network
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Advanced methodological training
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A collaborative cohort-based doctoral experience
These PhD positions represent a prestigious opportunity in Sociology, Social Science Theory, and Quantitative Social Research within one of the Netherlands’ leading academic environments.
For graduates aiming to build an academic career in Social Sciences, this programme offers comprehensive research training, financial support, and an internationally connected research platform.
