PhD in Digital Work, Inclusion, and Social Enterprise at University of Twente University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente is offering a fully-funded, 4-year PhD position focused on designing and managing digital work for the inclusion of marginalized workers, particularly individuals with disabilities. This opportunity is part of the NWO-funded project “Don’t Forget the Forgotten! Towards a Platform-Based Approach for Sustainable Employment of Workers with a Disability,” based in the Faculty of Behavioural, Management & Social Sciences (BMS) in Enschede, Netherlands.

The research aims to explore how digital work—such as data annotation, content creation, and software testing—can be leveraged by social enterprises to foster labor market inclusion for marginalized groups. The project addresses challenges faced by social enterprises, including stakeholder collaboration, client engagement, and overcoming biases about the capabilities of workers with disabilities. The PhD candidate will develop theoretical insights and actionable strategies to support sustainable, inclusive digital work, contributing to both academic knowledge and societal impact.

As a PhD researcher, you will conduct and publish high-quality research, collaborate with social enterprises and interdisciplinary colleagues, and study the organization and management of novel forms of digital work. You will also contribute to policy recommendations and societal impact, working closely with a senior, interdisciplinary team of scholars in digital work, AI, and labor markets. The position is embedded in the “Professional Learning & Technology” (PLT) section, which specializes in research on professional learning, technology, and innovation in multidisciplinary settings.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in management, HRM, organization studies, psychology, sociology, disability studies, communication, or related fields. Proficiency in Dutch and English (C1 level) is required, or the ability to reach this level within 6–9 months. Experience or interest in digital work, labor inclusion, nascent occupations, HRM, organizational collaboration, or responsible innovation is expected. Experience with qualitative research involving vulnerable groups is a plus. Strong communication, conceptual, and analytical skills, and a motivation to work in a multidisciplinary, impact-driven environment are essential.

The position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881, 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, flexible work arrangements, a minimum of 232 leave hours (plus 96 extra hours for a 40-hour workweek), free access to sports facilities, and ample support for attending international conferences and workshops. The start date is September 2026, and the application deadline is March 31, 2026.

To apply, submit your application via the University of Twente careers portal, including a motivational letter, CV, academic transcripts, MSc thesis or a 5-page English summary, and contact details for two references (ideally including your MSc supervisor). For queries, contact Dr. Jeroen Meijerink at [email protected].