Dr. Vivian Visser

Biography

Vivian Visser is an assistant professor at Erasmus University Rotterdam, specializing in Governance and Pluralism within the Department of Public Administration and Sociology. With a robust academic background as an urban cultural sociologist, Visser's research delves into the intersection of public administration and sociology, focusing on the effects of governance on citizens and civil servants. Her work emphasizes citizen participation, community self-organization, and the processes contributing to social inequalities. Visser employs a multi-faceted, interdisciplinary approach that integrates both qualitative and quantitative methods, including vignette surveys, ethnographic observations, and in-depth interviews. Her ambition extends to exploring the role of emotions and social backgrounds of public professionals in fostering inclusive participation. Recognized for her outstanding academic contributions, Visser has received prestigious awards such as the Erasmus Research Prize in 2025 and the Erasmus Graduate School Award for her dissertation. She actively engages with the community through public talks and collaborations with societal stakeholders, aiming to bridge the gap between science and practice, thereby enhancing citizen participation and informing public policies. Beyond her research, Visser is a versatile educator, leading courses in Public Administration and Sociology at both bachelor and master levels, and she is known for creating inclusive learning environments that encourage diverse student participation.

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