Postdoc Predicting Forecasting Fertility in Groningen

Postdoc Predicting and Forecasting Fertility

Fertility outcomes – or whether and when people have children – is a major topic of study across the human sciences because of its importance for individuals and societies. Sociological and demographic research has developed numerous theories of fertility and produced a sophisticated body of work on the many characteristics associated with fertility. Despite this, we are poorly able to predict individual-level fertility and forecast future levels of fertility.

The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to research of fertility by investigating the causes of poor prediction and forecasting in addition to ways of improving them. The successful candidate will be embedded in the Department of Sociology and the ICS, the national-level interuniversity research and training center ICS (Interuniversity Center of Social Science Theory and Methodology).

What are you going to do?

You will be involved in two different projects both related to fertility. In the first, you will contribute to the project "Understanding fertility outcomes by quantifying the (un)predictable". In particular, you will investigate the results and implications of the PreFer data challenge – a large data challenge that was held with hundreds of researchers who attempted to predict who would have a child in three years. The second project is "Forecasting Fertility with Foundational Models".

More specific tasks include:

• Conducting independent high-quality research on the limits of predicting fertility in relation to the PreFer data challenge.
• Apply foundation models to forecasts of fertility capitalising on Dutch register data.
• Sharing knowledge through scientific publications (peer-reviewed journals) and non-scientific publications (policy briefs, outreach materials).
• Presenting results at conferences, workshops, and stakeholder events.
• Engage in educational activities that contribute to your professional growth in the project and the Department of Sociology.
• Participate in biweekly Families, Lifecourse and Ageing research cluster meetings.

Who are you?

You are an ambitious researcher with (or close to getting) a PhD in Family Sociology or Computational Social Sciences. You have a strong publication record. You have a demonstrably strong technical profile which is sufficient to conduct the tasks listed below.

Specifically, we expect the following:

• You hold a PhD in Family Sociology and/or Computational Social Sciences.
• You have strong scientific writing and reporting skills, with a publication record commensurate with career stage.
• You have substantial experience with both Python and R.
• You have substantial experience with machine learning techniques.
• You have experience with the PreFer data challenge.
• You have experience with working with Dutch register data.
• You have the ability to identify opportunities for collaboration and impact.

What can you expect from us?

• In accordance with the collective labor agreement for Dutch universities, we offer a salary of at least € 3.546 up to a maximum of € 5.538 (schaal 10) gross per month for a full-time employment contract.
• 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
• End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.
• A temporary appointment for a period of 20 months.

Where will you be working?

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.

The Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences (GMW) excels in research and teaching in the areas of behaviour, thinking, learning, and participation in society. More than 4,500 students and approximately 650 staff address social questions and challenges that people experience in daily life. Our core focus is on individual and societal resilience and how to strengthen it. We focus on current themes such as health and wellbeing, sustainable living, learning and development, inclusive society, safe and healthy upbringing, and work and collaboration. If you would like to learn more about the Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences, visit rug.nl/gmw.

For more information on the Department of Sociology please check the link Department of Sociology

Application procedure

After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email.

The selection committee assesses your application and you will be notified as soon as possible whether you are invited for an interview.

We would like to get to know each other better in a first interview, which can take place either online or on location.

We may schedule a second interview with you. Depending on the position, this interview can be complemented with an assessment or guest lecture.

After a positive interview, we will discuss the terms of employment together. When everything is completed, we are happy to welcome you at the University of Groningen!

Interested?

Does this vacancy appeal to you? If so, click on the button below and apply straightaway.

Please add the following documents to your application:

• CV.
• Cover letter.