15. Societal polarization and the health of trans and gender diverse people

Host

Amsterdam UMC

Duration

36 months

The research

This research will aim:

1. To chart public policies related to gender-affirming medical care and their associations with polarization in different countries
2. To examine the effects of societal polarization on the health of trans and gender diverse people
3. To query the lived experience of people across societies marked by differing levels of structural stigma and polarization

In this project we will examine how societal polarization, particularly around gender-affirming medical care, is influencing the lives of trans and gender diverse people around the world. We will use mixed-methods approaches, including quantitative survey data (e.g., Trans Health Map, FRA LGBTI Survey) and semi-structured interviews with trans and gender diverse people in different countries to understand their experiences of polarization and stigma as well as social gender affirmation. The primary place of employment will be TGEU, but the candidate will work closely with the team at Amsterdam UMC, where they will ultimately receive their doctoral degree. A secondment at the Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria at Amsterdam UMC will also help to gain direct experience with trans and gender diverse clients seeking medical care, as well as their care providers.

Your experience

Candidates should have:

• A Master’s degree in psychology or a related social science field
• Strong analytical skills and problem-solving abilities
• Excellent higher education track record and scientific curiosity
• Fluent spoken and written English skills

 In addition, the following experience would be helpful, but not essential: 

• Experience with research in trans and gender diverse or other marginalized populations
• Prior record of research related to the topic of the PhD

The position

Your primary appointment will be with Transgender Europe (TGEU) in Berlin, but you will be academically supervised in the Department of Medical Psychology at Amsterdam UMC. You will be working in community-based advocacy organization with strong public policy and international experience at TGEU, as well as an interdisciplinary research group that has extensive experience in research on social stigma and trans and gender diverse populations at Amsterdam UMC. The research groups will collaborate with other social scientists involved in the study of the societal implications of gender.