معرفی
Dr. Anouk Smeekes is an Associate Professor at Utrecht University's Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, within the Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences. She leads research in the Youth Studies chairgroup, focusing on youth responses to societal challenges like climate change, populism, and colonial legacies. Her teaching spans the MERM Research Master (Ethnic Prejudice course), YDSC Master (thesis coordination), and ISS bachelor programs, while also serving on the Faculty's Exam Committee.
Her research explores social/political psychology mechanisms through thematic pillars:
- Emotional responses of youth to societal disruptions
- National nostalgia's role in shaping political attitudes
- Intergroup relations in multicultural societies
- Climate anxiety and civic engagement pathways
Recent publications demonstrate strong emphasis on collective nostalgia, identity politics, and youth psychology. Works frequently examine how historical narratives influence contemporary intergroup conflicts and radicalization, with increasing focus on climate-related anxieties (2020-2024). Methodologically, she employs cross-cultural comparisons across 27+ countries.
Awards & Recognition:
Rae and Dr. Dan Landis Outstanding Dissertation Award (2015)
Research Leadership:
- CONCILIARE Horizon Europe project co-leader (2024-2027): Examining Europe's colonial heritage transitions
- Principal investigator: Youth climate anxiety/hope dynamics study (Faculty-funded)
- Supervises 10+ Master's theses annually in Migration/Ethnic Relations programs
