Fully Funded PhD Position in Social Data Science at VU Amsterdam: Research the Online Manipulation Economy
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam invites applications for a fully funded, four-year PhD position in Social Data Science to investigate the economic infrastructure behind digital influence operations. The successful candidate will join the Department of Communication Science with a preferred start date of January 4, 2027.
Overview
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) is offering a fully funded, four-year doctoral position focusing on Social Data Science. The researcher will investigate the market infrastructure behind disinformation, fake online engagement, and bot networks as part of the Vidi-funded project “The Economy of Digital Influence Operations,” led by Associate Professor Jon Roozenbeek. The position is based in Amsterdam within the Department of Communication Science and involves close research links with the University of Cambridge.
Benefits
- Full-time salaried position starting at €3,204 gross per month, rising to a maximum of €4,051 gross per month in the fourth year.
- An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
- A standard 38-hour work week with 232 hours of annual leave.
- Contributions toward commuting expenses and access to optional personalized benefits.
- Structured professional development through the Graduate School of Social Sciences.
Eligibility
- Must hold a relevant research master’s degree or equivalent in fields such as Social Data Science, Communication Science, Psychology, or Economics.
- Demonstrated proficiency in both Python and R programming languages.
- Strong quantitative research abilities and advanced statistical knowledge, specifically including time-series analysis.
- Excellent academic writing skills in English.
- Desirable attributes include knowledge of Russian or Mandarin and experience with experimental research design.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official recruitment portal. Candidates must provide an up-to-date curriculum vitae and a concise, maximum two-page motivation letter in English or Dutch connecting their background directly to the project requirements.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted no later than Monday, 14 September 2026 at 23:59.