In order to maintain and strengthen the leading position held by Leiden University, TU Delft and Erasmus University Rotterdam (LDE), it is important to remain attractive to international academic talent. Experience shows it is more likely that international academic and scientific staff come to work in the Netherlands and maintain links with our universities for longer if there is an attractive career prospect for their partners. Helping the partners in finding career opportunities by learning them how to network and to connect them with potential employers is the focus and aim of the Leiden-Delft-Erasmus Dual Career Network.
By the end of 2022 almost half of all scientific staff in the Netherlands came from abroad (46.4%). The vast majority of these international researchers are from other European countries, China, India, North America, South and Central America, as well as the Middle East1. For our LDE-universities the proportion of international academic staff is as follows: Leiden University (42.5%), TU Delft (60.1%) and Erasmus University Rotterdam (42.7%). International academics are often accompanied by their partners, who are also eager to work in the Netherlands. To assist the partners in the best possible way, Leiden-Delft-Erasmus established the Dual Career Network (DCN) in 2018.
The universities in the LDE network collaborate closely and aspire all to retain their leading position in a competitive market. Besides, they are located closely to each other in the province of South Holland, which is an attractive and prosperous province that is home to countless companies and organisations, governmental agencies, NGOs and networks. The individual universities offer assistance for partners of academics through their own Dual Career Programme (DCP) and combine strengths in the Dual Career Network . All (English-language) information on the Dual Career programmes from the individual universities is available on the websites of:
Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam
TU Delft
Femke Zuijdwijk, Dual Career Officer, explains the importance of the DCN: Since the start of the Dual Career Network we have supported over 400 partners to find a new job and/or set up their own business in the Netherlands. Our approach focusses on networking: we help partners connect with potential employers, educate them on effective networking strategies, and create a platform where DCN members can connect with (and help) each other.
At the same time, I am meeting with specialist recruiters, executive search agencies and (possible) future employers in the South Holland region (e.g. NGOs, municipalities, research agencies, universities and schools) to explore opportunities.
How does the Dual Career Network (DCN) work?
The Dual Career Network is the third part of the individual universities Dual Career Programme, which consist of three steps:
1. Orientation
2. Training
3. Network
The programme is tailored to partners’ specific background and needs. The university at which the working partner is employed arranges for the partner to join the programme. See the websites as mentioned above for more information on the first two parts of the Dual Career Programme.
Through the DCN we aim at bridging the gap to the Dutch job market for partners by making tailored introductions to potential employers end setting up potential networking conversations. In addition, recuring monthly Dual Career Network Jobclub sessions are being offered and 1 on 1 sessions with the Dual Career Officer for further guidance and assistance
In an intake meeting with the partner, the DCN is being presented after which the partner’s profile, background and wishes are being discussed as well as the next possible steps which can be taken. E.g. more courses can be attended to prepare the partner for the Dutch job market and/or introductions can be made with relevant academics, hiring managers and recruiters for networking conversations.
More information?
Do you want more information about the Dual Career Network? Contact Femke via f.n.m.zuijdwijk@bb.leidenuniv.nl or phone no.: +31 6 31 94 14 88
The Dual Career Program of Leiden-Delft-Erasmus has been instrumental in helping me transition smoothly to life and work in the Netherlands. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed and supported. The program provided a reliable network of internationals and locals, giving me invaluable insights into the Dutch job market and connecting me with potential employers. Through tailored career coaching, training sessions, and networking events, I gained the tools and confidence to optimize my job search and present my best self to employers. Beyond career support, the program also helped me adapt to life in the Netherlands, making the transition from the US much easier. Thanks to the connections I made through the program, I found my current role as an effective communications trainer. I’m grateful for the continuous support and highly recommend the Dual Career Program to anyone navigating a similar journey.
Siti Hajar Esa
Participant, Dual Career Program