Vacancy
Action Researcher Project Wij(k) in Beweging (WIB)
Your job
Do you want to work towards a future where sports and physical activities are attractive and accessible to everyone? Are you excited to tackle this together with residents, municipalities, and various local parties through participatory action research?
On November 15, the research project Wij(k) in Beweging (WIB) will start: a community-oriented transition towards greater social equality through sports and physical activity, funded by ZonMw. We are looking for an action researcher for 0.8 FTE for this new project.
WiB aims to identify barriers to participation in sports and physical activities and to develop and implement innovative solutions together with all stakeholders.
As an action researcher, you will initiate activities to collect relevant information with residents and other involved parties, analyze this information, translate it into actions, and evaluate the outcomes. A systems approach (including the development of a 'theory of change' and realistic evaluation) and maintaining an equitable relationship with residents are fundamental. You will also be responsible for effective coordination and communication between the various collaborating parties and the two other neighborhoods. You will be the contact person in the neighborhood, ensure a suitable schedule, and take action when necessary. Additionally, you will ensure that the knowledge gathered is shared broadly through various channels, including scientific publications. The workplace for this position is in Wageningen.
Your qualities
- You have a scientific education and/or work experience in health promotion, the social domain, sports and physical activity, or another relevant field. A PhD is a plus.
- You have experience with scientific research and affinity and/or experience with participatory action research.
- You are an organizational talent, capable of connecting and inspiring parties, addressing challenges and dilemmas at an early stage, and holding parties accountable for their tasks and roles.
- You possess excellent verbal and written communication skills in Dutch and good communication skills in English.
Where you will work:
The action research will take place in three neighborhoods functioning as 'living labs': Slotermeer (Amsterdam), de Pierik (Zwolle), and Didam (Montferland). An action researcher will work in each of these neighborhoods. This vacancy concerns the action researcher in Didam.
The current consortium consists of 14 partners: Wageningen University & Research, Inholland University of Applied Sciences, Windesheim University of Applied Sciences, UMC Utrecht, Arnhem Nijmegen University of Applied Sciences, Expertise Center Strong from Poverty, Life Goals Foundation Netherlands, Municipality of Amsterdam, Municipality of Zwolle, Municipality of Montferland, Team Sportservice Amsterdam, Sportservice Zwolle, Sport Data Valley, and the Mulier Institute. The project runs until September 15, 2027.
As an action researcher, you will be employed by the Health and Society chair group at Wageningen University & Research.
The Health and Society chair group focuses on significant challenges affecting the health of people and the planet. Whether we focus on individuals, communities, policy issues, or broader environmental concerns, we integrate these aspects into our education and research to promote the health and well-being of society.
We investigate various aspects, such as the influence of the physical environment on lifestyle and health practices, the impact of friends and family on (un)healthy choices, and the effects of policy on public health and the environment. Our approach combines scientific insights with participatory methods to contribute to a healthier world. We collaborate with practice to achieve our research goals and enhance the impact of our work.
We offer you
When it comes to employment conditions, you are well off at Wageningen University & Research. Some highlights from our collective labor agreement include:
- Sabbatical leave, study leave, and partially paid parental leave;
- Working hours can be established in consultation, allowing for an optimal work-life balance;
- The opportunity to earn extra vacation/compensation hours by working more;
- There is a strong focus on vitality, and you can use the sports facilities on campus at an attractive rate;
- A structural year-end bonus of 8.3%;
- An excellent pension scheme via ABP.
The position is for 0.8 FTE and lasts until September 15, 2027.
Wageningen University & Research encourages internal growth opportunities and mobility through an internal recruitment policy. There are ample opportunities for initiative in a learning environment, and we offer excellent training opportunities. You will have a diverse job in an international setting with a pleasant and open working atmosphere.
You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, at a university that has been named the "best university" in the Netherlands for the 19th consecutive time.
Coming from abroad
Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large international community and a lot to offer to international employees.
Because we expect you to work and live in the Netherlands our team of advisors on Dutch immigration procedures will help you with the visa application procedures for yourself and, if applicable, for your family. If you come with a partner, we offer a Dual Career group program organized by our Welcome Center. This program helps your partner to get familiar with the Dutch culture, labour market and assists your partner to find a job.
Feeling welcome also has everything to do with being well informed. Wageningen University & Research's International Community page contains practical information about what we can do to support international employees coming to Wageningen. Furthermore, our Welcome Center can assist you with any additional advice and information about for example housing, opening a bank account or schooling. Finally, certain categories of international staff may be eligible for a tax exemption on a part of their salary during the first five years in the Netherlands.
Do you want more information?
For more information about this position, you can contact Dr. Kirsten Verkooijen, Project Leader of Wij(k) in Beweging, at kirsten.verkooijen@wur.nl.
For more information about the application procedure, you can contact Jouke van Oostenbrugge, corporate recruiter, at recruitment.ssg@wur.nl.
Want to apply?
You can apply directly via the application button on our website so that we can process your personal details with your consent.
This vacancy is open until November 11, 2024. We aim to schedule the first interviews on November 15, 2024.
Procedure:
An assessment may be included as part of our selection process.
Welcome, Safe, and Valued:
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) places great importance on diversity and inclusion because we believe that different insights lead to innovative solutions. Therefore, we create a working environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and valued, regardless of background, identity, or experience. Together, we build a culture where everyone's unique contribution contributes to the success of our organization.
We are
The mission of Wageningen University & Research is “To explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life”. Under the banner Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen University and the specialised research institutes of the Wageningen Research Foundation have joined forces in contributing to finding solutions to important questions in the domain of healthy food and living environment. With its roughly 30 branches, 7,600 employees (6,700 fte) and 13,100 students and over 150,000 participants to WUR’s Life Long Learning, Wageningen University & Research is one of the leading organisations in its domain. The unique Wageningen approach lies in its integrated approach to issues and the collaboration between different disciplines.
Read the 5 reasons why your future colleagues enjoy working at WUR and watch the video below to get an idea of our green campus!
We will recruit for the vacancy ourselves, so no employment agencies please. However, sharing in your network is appreciated.