Postdoctoral Researcher in Family Change and Low Fertility in East Asia
Position Announcement
Postdoctoral Researcher in Family Change and Low Fertility in East Asia
Institute of Sociology, Academia Sinica | Taipei, Taiwan
Renewable
Research-focused
15 September 2026
Overview
The Institute of Sociology, Academia Sinica invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to join a research program on family change, partnership formation, and low fertility in Taiwan and East Asia. The position offers opportunities to develop independent publications, involves no teaching load, and provides mentorship toward publication in leading journals. It is particularly suitable for early-career researchers seeking to establish an independent publication record in family demography and population studies.
The research program seeks to understand how contemporary demographic change — including delayed partnership formation, rising singlehood, changing gender relations, persistent low fertility, and social inequalities — is reshaping family life in Taiwan and East Asia.
Research Themes
- Singlehood and unpartnered adults
- Partnership formation and marriage
- Fertility intentions
- Gender, values, and family change
- Inequality in low-fertility societies
- Taiwan and comparative East Asian demography
Responsibilities
- Develop independent and collaborative research papers
- Analyze survey and/or register-based demographic data
- Contribute to international journal manuscripts
- Participate in workshops, conferences, and cross-country research meetings
- Help strengthen the broader research program
Desired Qualifications
- PhD in demography, sociology, population studies, economics, public health, or related fields
- Strong quantitative skills and experience with Stata, R, or equivalent
- Interest in family demography, fertility, gender, or life-course research
- Strong English academic writing ability
- Interest in East Asia/Taiwan is desirable but not required
Why Join Academia Sinica?
Research Environment
Academia Sinica is Taiwan's national academy and one of Asia's leading research institutions. The Institute of Sociology provides a highly research-intensive environment with extensive opportunities for international collaboration. Conference travel support up to US$2,000 per year is available.
Data Resources
Access to the newly completed Taiwan Generations and Gender Survey (GGS-Taiwan), administrative registers, large social surveys in Taiwan, and comparative international datasets.
Career Development
The position supports independent publication, international conference participation, and the development of an independent research profile.
Living in Taipei
Taipei offers universal healthcare, efficient public transportation, moderate taxation, and a high quality of life. Purchasing power compares favorably once living costs are considered.
How to Apply
Please apply online via the application survey and include in a single PDF file:
- Cover Letter (maximum 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 5 pages)
- Research Statement (maximum 3 pages) — including research accomplishments, ongoing work, future research plans, and methodological/technical skills
- Names and contact information for two academic referees
- One writing sample or publication
The position is open to applicants worldwide; however, successful candidates are expected to relocate to Taipei. Salary starts from approximately US$32,000 gross per year for recent PhD graduates, with enrollment in Taiwan's National Health Insurance and other benefits.
Timeline
| Full consideration deadline | 15 September 2026 |
| Interviews | Online (or in-person if possible) |
| Preferred start date | September – December 2026 |
| PhD requirement | Completed before appointment begins |
Note on renewal: The initial 2-year contract is funded by the research project. Contingent on performance and mutual interest, candidates interested in extending beyond the initial term will be supported in applying for competitive funding through Academia Sinica's central Postdoctoral Scholar Program.
Contact
For inquiries about the position, please contact:
Dr. Yen-hsin Alice Cheng —
ASIAN POPULATION ASSOCIATION | ASIANPA.ORG