PhD in Housing Collectives, Sustainability Transitions, and Collective Values at Delft University of Technology

The Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment at Delft University of Technology is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on identifying collective values amongst housing collectives for sustainability transitions. This opportunity is part of the NWO-funded ECCO project, which aims to empower citizen collectives for societal change. The research will explore how housing collectives contribute to values-based sustainability transitions, examining collective values such as solidarity, care, sustainability, and cooperation. The project also investigates how citizen groups collaborate with governments and influence policy. The successful candidate will conduct both qualitative and quantitative research, including interviews, surveys, workshops, and focus groups. Responsibilities include developing the Collective Values Navigator, a digital co-creation tool, mapping collective values, designing pathways for policy and sustainability impact, facilitating sense-making sessions with stakeholders, and collaborating with other ECCO PhD researchers across Dutch universities. Applicants should have a Master’s degree in social sciences, management, organizational studies, or human geography, with a strong affinity for housing studies. Experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, familiarity with analysis software (Atlas.ti, NVivo), and statistical tools (Excel, SPSS) are required. Full fluency in English is mandatory, and Dutch proficiency is highly desirable. Strong communication, organizational, and teamwork skills are essential. The position offers a competitive salary (€3,059–€3,881/month), 8% holiday pay, and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus. The contract duration is four years, with an initial 1.5-year contract and a 2.5-year extension upon assessment. Additional benefits include enrollment in the TU Delft Graduate School, training, mentoring, professional development, relocation support, dual-career assistance, flexible work arrangements, and social/academic networking opportunities. Supervision will be provided by Dr. Darinka Czischke (main promotor) and Prof. Tine De Moor (co-promotor). For more information or to apply, visit the TU Delft careers portal or contact Dr. Darinka Czischke ([email protected]) or recruitment ([email protected]). The application deadline is 15 February 2026.