PhD Position: Transition from Lower to Upper Vocational Education

This PhD position at Erasmus University Rotterdam focuses on understanding how young people experience the transition from vocational lower secondary education (vmbo) to vocational upper secondary education (mbo). As part of the national research program STRONGER2GETHER, the candidate will conduct qualitative and mixed-methods research to develop interventions that support this critical life stage. The project emphasizes collaborative research with young people, educators, and professionals to strengthen positive social relationships and mental well-being. The successful applicant will contribute to a transdisciplinary research community, co-designing solutions and translating findings into educational practice, policy, and public awareness.

• Conduct a literature review and focus group analyses to examine social transitions from vmbo to mbo.
• Design, implement, and evaluate interventions to support youth transitions using design-based research methods.
• Develop four English-language academic publications and two to three practice-oriented articles based on research findings.
• Present research results at national and international conferences.
• Collaborate with peers, postdocs, and practitioners within the STRONGER2GETHER network.
• Contribute to documentary films, handbooks, and other knowledge products for educators.
• Teach in educational sciences courses at Erasmus University Rotterdam for 10% of working hours during the first three to four years.