Postdoc in Youth Studies and Urban Research (Social Sciences)

About the FHSE

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Faculty of Humanities, Education and Social Sciences (FHSE) at the University of Luxembourg brings together expertise from the humanities, linguistics, cognitive sciences, social and educational sciences.
People from across 20 disciplines are working within the Faculty. Along with the disciplinary approach a very ambitious interdisciplinary research culture has been developed. The faculty's research and teaching focuses on social, economic, political and educational issues with the common goal of contributing to an inclusive, open and resourceful society.

Your role

We are seeking a post-doctoral researcher to join the YES - Young People in Esch-sur-Alzette project, which explores the experiences of youth aged 12 to 29 in and with the city of Esch-sur-Alzette from a social sciences perspective. This role primarily involves using qualitative methods to study young people's interests, challenges and use of local social action measures, ultimately contributing to the development of a new municipal youth plan. The researcher will work closely with local authorities and the University of Luxembourg to generate scientific insights that will inform public policy.

The successful candidate will be affiliated with the Centre for Childhood and Youth Research (CCY) within the Department of Social Sciences. The CCY is a multidisciplinary research team that examines the conditions and opportunity structures of growing up against the backdrop of social change and inequalities. It maintains strong links to other institutes and relevant organizations within and beyond the department, both nationally and internationally.

Tasks:

• Engage with local actors and community organizations to align research with local needs
• Develop sociological research questions focused on the experiences of youth
• Conduct secondary analysis of existing quantitative data to contextualize findings and prepare for qualitative fieldwork
• Implement qualitative research methods (e.g., individual interviews, focus groups, ethnographic observations) to map young people's interests, problems and experiences with local social action measures
• Present findings at relevant conferences and engage in outreach activities
• Write a report and contribute to research publications

For further information, please contact: Dr. Hannes Käckmeister / (+352) 46 66 44 5835 /

Your profile

• A PhD in social sciences, with specialization in youth studies or urban research
• Proficiency in qualitative research methods (interviews, ethnographic observations, focus groups) Experience in quantitative data analysis (secondary data analysis) is a valuable asset
• Proficiency in written and spoken French and/ or German. Knowledge of Luxembourgish is a plus
• Ability to work autonomously
• Willingness to engage in teamwork in research groups

We offer

• Multilingual and international character. Modern institution with a personal atmosphere. Staff coming from 90 countries. Member of the "University of the Greater Region" (UniGR)
• A modern and dynamic university. High-quality equipment. Close ties to the business world and to the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban site with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and with numerous non-academic partners such as ministries, local governments, associations, NGOs …

How to apply

Your application in French or German should be submitted online and include:

• Motivation letter (max. two pages)
• Curriculum vitae
• Writing sample (e.g., Ph. D. thesis, journal article)
• Copies of diplomas
• Names and contact details of two academic referees

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Interviews with shortlisted candidates are scheduled for January 2025.

Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 24 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Foreseen starting date: 1^st March, 2025
• Location: Campus Belval
• Internal Title: Postdoctoral researcher
• Job Reference: UOL07005

The yearly gross salary for every Postdoctoral Researcher at the UL is EUR 83099 (full time).