Fully Funded PhD in Environmental Design at TU Delft

About the Program

The Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), Netherlands, invites applications for a Fully Funded PhD in Environmental Design and Urban Resilience. The position focuses on justice and adaptive capacity to heat stress in informal settlements, particularly within conflict-sensitive regions. Supervised by Dr Marjolein van Esch, this four-year doctoral project explores how environmental design and social justice can strengthen community resilience against climate-induced heat stress. Hosted within the Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, this interdisciplinary project connects urbanism, ethics, and environmental technology. The programme aligns with TU Delft’s commitment to sustainable design innovation and global climate adaptation.

Program Details

Position: Fully Funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
Institution: Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)
Department/Faculty: Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment, Department of Urbanism
Supervisor: Dr Marjolein van Esch
Location: Delft, Netherlands
Start Date (Anticipated): 2025
Duration: 4 years (initial 1.5-year contract + 2.5 years extension upon positive evaluation)
Funding: Fully funded; salary ranges from €2,901 – €3,707 per month
Working Hours: 32–38 hours per week
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s in Social Geography, Urbanism, Anthropology, or related field

Research Focus/Area

Justice and adaptive capacity to heat stress
Socially just and context-sensitive climate adaptation strategies
Urban resilience and informal settlement design
Interdisciplinary approaches linking social justice, ethics, and environmental technology

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Social Geography, Urbanism, Anthropology, or related discipline
Experience in qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis
Proficiency in English (spoken and written)

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong academic record with demonstrated research experience
Familiarity with social justice theories, ethics, and urban environmental design
Collaborative mindset and interdisciplinary approach

Key Features of the Program

Immersive research in environmental design and social resilience
Opportunity to collaborate with the Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management and the Climate Safety & Security Centre (CaSS) at TU Delft | Campus The Hague
Access to professional development and mentoring via the TU Delft Graduate School
International and interdisciplinary research environment with training support
Relocation assistance through Coming to Delft Service