PhD Candidate: De-escalating Aggression Between Frontline Workers and Citizens
Join a multidisciplinary research project analyzing video interactions to understand and reduce aggressive confrontations in public transport settings.
Best for:Best for recent (Research) Master’s graduates in Criminology, Sociology, or related social sciences with strong qualitative/quantitative research skills and an interest in conflict management and video analysis.
Overview
This PhD position at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam focuses on investigating mechanisms that escalate or de-escalate aggressive interactions between frontline workers (e.g., public transport staff) and citizens. As part of the ORC-NWA consortium project, the successful candidate will conduct participatory observations, qualitative and quantitative video analyses, and collaborate with societal partners to develop de-escalation strategies. The role involves fieldwork, data collection, statistical analysis, and dissemination of findings through academic publications, workshops, and policy-oriented materials. The project emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration and practical application of research outcomes in real-world settings.
What you'll do
- Conduct participatory observations of frontline workers in public transport settings to collect real-time interaction data.
- Develop and apply video observation instruments to analyze bodycam and CCTV footage of aggressive confrontations.
- Perform qualitative and quantitative analyses of video data to identify patterns in aggression escalation/de-escalation.
- Collaborate with societal partners to integrate findings into practical de-escalation strategies and training materials.
- Present research findings at academic conferences, workshops, and to stakeholders in applied settings.
- Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and translate academic insights into accessible factsheets for professionals.
- Organize and co-facilitate team data sessions, workshops, and dissemination activities within the De-Escalation Lab.
- Participate in relevant academic courses and training programs to enhance methodological and disciplinary expertise.
- Engage actively in the intellectual life of the Sociology Department and contribute to undergraduate/graduate teaching in related fields.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Criminology, Sociology, Communication Sciences, Psychology, Crisis & Security Management, Behavioral Biology, or a related social science field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: Dutch (B2 level) and English (C1 level) — essential for collaboration and academic output.
Instruction: Dutch and English
- Proven academic excellence with outstanding study results and research skills.
- Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methods, including video analysis and observational techniques.
- In-depth knowledge of violence, conflict, and interactional research, particularly in aggression and conflict management.
- Prior experience conducting empirical research (e.g., internships, research assistant roles, or junior positions).
- Strong proficiency in Dutch (B2 level) and English (C1 level) for communication with partners and academic dissemination.
- Open to all nationalities; no residency restrictions mentioned.
- No age or prior experience caps beyond standard PhD eligibility.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-22T21:59:59 (Europe/Amsterdam)
Applicants must submit a complete application package via the VU’s online portal. The package should include a CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, and contact details for two references. Ensure your application highlights your research experience, language proficiency, and alignment with the project’s interdisciplinary goals.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc + MSc)
- Two reference letters
Contact
First Last· PhD Supervisor / Project Lead
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