The Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development at Utrecht University is recruiting a PhD candidate for a new project within the ECCO (Empowering Citizen COllectives in societal transitions) initiative. This research focuses on how citizen collectives can build the infrastructure and capacities for mass mobilisation, aiming to widen engagement beyond their immediate communities and drive sustainability transitions. The project is part of a large, interdisciplinary consortium funded by the Dutch Research Agenda (NWA), involving academic and societal partners, and is coordinated through the CollectieveKracht platform. The PhD candidate will explore how grassroots organisations in areas such as housing, work, income, and sustainability can become powerful drivers of societal change. The research will use qualitative and action research methods to analyse existing mobilisation efforts, identify challenges, and co-develop practical approaches with networks like LSA, Energie Samen, and Cooplink. The candidate will facilitate workshops, conduct interviews, and embed themselves in ongoing change processes to help collectives envision and develop organisational and digital tools for broader participation. The position is embedded in a cohort of 11 PhD candidates from multiple Dutch universities and disciplines, offering a strong support network, peer mentoring, and opportunities for joint research days, workshops, and events. The research will have real-world impact by empowering citizen collectives and influencing policy, and will provide career development in transdisciplinary research, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge translation. Applicants should have a background relevant to sustainability transitions, social innovation, or social movement theory, with experience in qualitative research and action research. Dutch proficiency is highly valued, and excellent English is required. The position is fully funded for four years, with a competitive salary and benefits under the Dutch university system. The application deadline is 15 January 2026. For more information, contact Professor Flor Avelino ([email protected]) or Dr Jonas Colen Ladeia Torrens ([email protected]). To apply, submit your CV, motivation letter, academic diplomas and grade lists, at least two academic reference letters, English language test results (if required), and a research outline via the Utrecht University application portal.