Verena Seibel

Verena is an INSTITUUT GAK FELLOW at NIAS during 2023-2024.

I am an Assistant Professor (with tenure) at the Utrecht University in the Netherlands. Previously, I held a position as an Assistant Professor at the University of Groningen and was a Postdoctoral researcher at the University of Konstanz, Germany. I obtained my PhD at the Humboldt University of Berlin. During my academic journey I had the pleasure to enjoy various international academic settings as guest researcher at Yale University, Oxford University, Aalborg University and the University of Zurich. 

My research interest lies in the processes of migrants' adaptation to the host society. Currently, I focus on how migrants perceive their host society and welfare state, what factors lead to their attitudes adapting to those of the majority society, and what knowledge migrants have about their social rights. Moreover, I am very much interested in the role of social networks in these adaptation processes.

Next to my research I am passionate about contributing to an inclusive and equal academia. As a member of the 

Election Committee Faculty Board I make sure that the Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences experiences a round election period.  As a selected member of the Utrecht Young Academy, I am interested in shaping policies targeted at diversity and inclusion within Utrecht University. 

Last, but not least, I am an enthusiastic teacher. Transmitting knowledge to my students in an accessible way is one of my primary goals.