PhD Position in Spatial Planning – Urban Intensification and Land-rent Distribution (REBUILD Project) Utrecht University in Netherlands

This PhD position at Utrecht University is part of the international research project “Follow the money! REconstructing Belief systems behind Urban Intensification and Land-rent Distribution (REBUILD)”, funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. The project investigates urban densification in the Netherlands and Switzerland, aiming to understand land rent creation and redistribution, and the tensions among actors, values, discourses, and representations. The research focuses on how environmental and design requirements—such as sustainability standards, material choices, and architectural competitions—are negotiated within densification projects, and how discourses around land rent influence project-level governance.

As a PhD candidate, you will analyze how densification is performed in cities, examining the definition and negotiation of environmental and design requirements. You will study how actors legitimate their positions through discourses and how institutional arrangements address tensions between economic viability, social equity, and ecological limits. The position involves conducting field research in the Netherlands and Switzerland, collaborating with partners at Utrecht University, University of Bern, University of Lausanne, TU Delft, and other professional organizations. You will participate in project publications, research workshops, and events, build a network with practitioners, and contribute to the project’s communication strategy. Additional responsibilities include presenting research at scientific conferences, publishing in international peer-reviewed journals, and supporting teaching activities within the department (up to 10%).

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Human Geography, Spatial Planning, or a related social sciences discipline. Desired skills include case study and comparative analysis, with experience in institutional analysis, discourse analysis, or GIS considered a plus. Excellent English is required, and knowledge of German, French, or Dutch is advantageous. Interest in urban development and familiarity with the Dutch or Swiss planning system are desirable. Candidates should be team players, precise, engaged, self-organized, and committed to interdisciplinary work.

The position offers a full-time contract (36–40 hours per week) for one year, with extension to four years upon successful assessment, aiming for completion of a doctorate. The gross monthly salary ranges from €3,059 to €3,881, with 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible terms of employment under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU). Utrecht University also provides professional development opportunities, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. Employment conditions can be tailored through the Terms of Employment Options Model.

Utrecht University’s Faculty of Geosciences is a strong and challenging organization, focusing on sustainability and innovation. The Department of Human Geography & Spatial Planning is one of four departments within the faculty, which studies the Earth from its core to its surface, including spatial and material utilization. The university values diversity and strives to create a safe and inclusive environment for all staff.

To apply, submit your letter of motivation, CV (including university transcripts), and contact details of two references as a single PDF via the 'apply now' button. Also provide a sample of your writing (e.g., a chapter of your master's thesis) in a separate PDF. The application deadline is May 8, 2026, and interviews are expected at the end of May. For more information, contact Dr Josje Bouwmeester at [email protected].