KWR is looking for a Water Awareness Behavioral Researcher (32-40 hours)

We are seeking a social science researcher who will contribute substantively and methodologically to our research into human behavior and societal structures. Someone who wants to work at the intersection of research and practice on diverse research projects in the fields of water awareness, water governance, drinking water customer behavior, citizen participation, and engagement.

In close collaboration with partners in the water chain, you work on topics such as encouraging water-saving choices, risk perception regarding water quality, governance arrangements for water-efficient neighborhoods, and the acceptance of alternative drinking water sources. To this end, you apply your knowledge of behavioral change, influence mechanisms, and administrative and social processes.

It is important that you have experience with qualitative and quantitative social scientific research methods, with a specific interest in statistical analyses to collect, analyze, and interpret data.

You are a social science researcher with knowledge of behavioral psychology and social processes, preferably in the water sector, and you can clearly convey that knowledge.

You possess strong analytical skills, collaborate well, are customer-oriented, and know how to plan and organize your own work effectively.

Furthermore you have:

• A completed academic education in a social science field, such as behavioral sciences, psychology, sociology, or public administration;
• Knowledge of and experience with both quantitative and qualitative research methods;
• The ability to conduct research from an integrated perspective;
• Excellent Dutch, English, and academic writing skills;
• Work experience as a researcher, policy officer, or consultant.

At KWR, the Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) knowledge domain investigates how human behavior, societal structures, and cultural dynamics relate to complex water issues.

We conduct research into governance processes in the social environment, study citizens’ water behavior, apply a design approach (public design) for the water transition, and develop strategies for transformative changes in the water sector. Using creative methods, we bring the value of water to life in sustainability transitions.

Our team consists of twelve social science researchers with diverse backgrounds and experience. We work together towards our goals in an open, collegial, and constructive atmosphere.

About KWR

Safe and clean drinking water is a great asset. KWR is an internationally renowned research institute in the fields of water quality, the water cycle, and sustainable development.

Our researchers work at the intersection of science, business, and society. Their strength lies in translating scientific knowledge into applicable practical solutions for end-users in the Dutch and international water sector.

From our almost entirely sustainable building featuring state-of-the-art laboratories, our approximately 200 employees work on innovative projects in the Netherlands and, increasingly, in and outside Europe. The ten Dutch drinking water companies and the Belgian ‘De Watergroep’ are our shareholders.

Are you the water awareness behavioral researcher we are looking for, and do you want to advance water science and work with us towards a sustainable society? Then please send your cover letter and CV by email to vacancy@kwrwater.nl before August 20, quoting vacancy number 250040. The first round of interviews will take place on September 2.

For more detailed information about the position, please contact Jos Frijns (Team Leader) at 030 6069 583 or jos.frijns@kwrwater.nl.

For information about the application procedure, please contact José van Lieshout (Human Resources Advisor) at 030 6069 536 or jose.van.lieshout@kwrwater.nl.

Recruitment agencies contacting us regarding this vacancy are not appreciated.