About the Program
Are you passionate about sustainable futures and curious about how socio-technical systems—like electricity, heat, and mobility—interact and evolve? The Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) invites applications for a fully-funded 4-year PhD position. This interdisciplinary project investigates how system-wide sustainability transitions can be achieved by addressing misalignments between siloed domains. It offers a unique opportunity to explore real-world energy transitions through qualitative case studies, working closely with energy communities and municipalities. Based within the Technology, Innovation & Society (TIS) group, the role offers engagement in cutting-edge research and co-creation within active EU projects such as ACCU, EmPowerED, and SmartCore. With strong academic guidance and societal collaboration, this PhD is ideal for a social science graduate eager to make a meaningful impact on climate and energy policy.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position
- Institution: Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e)
- Department/Faculty: Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences – Technology, Innovation & Society (TIS) group
- Supervisors: Dr Luc van Summeren, Prof Dr Anna Wieczorek
- Location: Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Start Date (Anticipated): September 2025
- Duration: 4 years
- Funding: Full funding (Scale P: €2,901–€3,707/month), plus 8.3% year-end bonus and 8% vacation allowance
- Working Hours: Full-time (1.0 FTE)
- Required Degree: Master’s in a relevant social science field
Research Focus/Area
- Sustainability Transitions
- Socio-Technical Systems
- Energy Governance
- Mobility and Transport Studies
- Heating and Electricity Networks
- Innovation and Transition Studies
- Local Energy Communities
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or nearing completion) in Innovation Sciences, STS, Political Science, Philosophy, Sociology, Anthropology, or related fields
- Strong command of English (C1 level minimum)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with qualitative research (e.g. interviews, focus groups)
- Interest in or experience with transdisciplinary or action-oriented research
- Dutch language proficiency is an asset
- Good communication, collaboration, and planning skills
Key Features of the Program
- Embedded in a vibrant, interdisciplinary, and international academic group
- 15% teaching responsibility during PhD
- Hands-on research within real-world case studies
- Opportunities for co-creation with public stakeholders
- Access to institutional support for conferences, training, and mobility
- On-campus facilities including childcare, sports, and international staff support
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit a complete application via TU/e’s online portal
Required Documents:
- Cover Letter (max 1 page)
- CV with names and contact of three referees
- Research Proposal (max 1500 words)
- Writing Sample (e.g. published paper or Master’s thesis)
- Proof of English proficiency
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 18 June 2025
- Deadline: 31 August 2025 (position may be filled earlier)
- Interviews: July – September 2025
Where to Apply
- University Website: Eindhoven University of Technology
- Official Notification: PhD position on Investigating and fostering socio-technical transformation
- Application Portal: Apply Here
