Research

The Sociology Department uses a variety of research methods, such as large-scale surveys and experiments (including in its own laboratory setting). The research programme is divided into six research areas.

You will find a list of our department members' areas of expertise here.

Assessment research

The Sociology department's research was awarded an 'excellent' rating for the third consecutive time by an international committee during the national external research review conducted by the Royal Dutch Academy of Sciences (KNAW).

Institutions for Open Societies

Institutions for open societies

Much of the Sociology department's research falls within the university research theme ‘Institutions for Open Societies’. Researchers from sections from the entire University work together and apply best practices from their disciplines in response to issues.

ICS - Centre for Social Science Theory and Methodology

Our PhD candidates are part of the Interuniversity Center for Social Science Theory and Methodology, a leading research centre and graduate school in the social sciences. Our research is part of the ‘Social Networks, Solidarity and Inequality’ research program.

groepsfoto ICS 2025
ICS cohort 2025