PhD Candidate: Agents of Doubt - A Novel Framework on Adolescents
Investigate how AI-generated content influences knowledge formation and epistemic trust among adolescents.
Best for:Social science researchers with a strong background in quantitative methods and an interest in AI, digital communication, or youth development.
Overview
The Amsterdam School of Communication Research (ASCoR) at the University of Amsterdam is seeking two PhD candidates for a four-year project titled 'Agents of Doubt'. This research examines how synthetic content, such as AI-generated text and media, impacts adolescents' epistemic uncertainty and their ability to form independent beliefs. Successful applicants will employ a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods, including panel surveys, lab experiments, and focus groups. Candidates will work within the Youth and Media Entertainment Program Group under the supervision of Jochen Peter and Toni van der Meer. The role involves conducting original research, contributing to a paper-based dissertation, and participating in teaching activities.
What you'll do
- Complete an English-language PhD dissertation based on research articles within the four-year appointment.
- Design and execute quantitative research including panel surveys, lab experiments, and data donation.
- Conduct qualitative research through focus groups and data analysis.
- Present research findings at national and international academic conferences.
- Contribute 10% of working time to teaching-related tasks for Bachelor's students.
- Collaborate effectively within an interdisciplinary research team.
Requirements
Degree required: Research Master's degree in Communication Science, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology, or a related social science discipline.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: Excellent command of English.
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated experience with quantitative research methods such as surveys or experiments.
- Proficiency in statistical data analysis techniques.
- Experience with or knowledge of qualitative focus group methods.
- Excellent command of written and spoken English.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Must hold a relevant Research Master's degree.
- Must be able to commit to a full-time (1.0 fte) appointment.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-16
Interested candidates should submit a motivation letter and a CV via the official application portal. Ensure all required documents are prepared according to the university's guidelines before the deadline.
- CV
- Motivation letter
Contact
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