PhD Position in Digital Work, Social Inclusion, and Labour Market Innovation University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente in the Netherlands is offering a fully-funded, 4-year PhD position focused on designing and managing digital work for social inclusion, particularly for people with disabilities. This opportunity is part of the project “Don’t Forget the Forgotten! Towards a Platform-Based Approach for Sustainable Employment of Workers with a Disability,” funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO). The research aims to foster labour market inclusion by developing new theories and practical tools for social enterprises and sheltered workplaces, leveraging digital work such as data annotation, online content creation, and software testing.

The PhD researcher will explore platform-based work models, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable employment strategies, contributing to both academic theory and actionable knowledge for social enterprises. The project emphasizes socio-technological innovation, institutional change, and the development of digital work as a driver of social inclusion. The successful candidate will work in a multidisciplinary team, collaborating with experts in digital work, online platforms, labour markets, and AI systems at work, and will receive mentorship from an international supervisory team.

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in management, HRM, sociology, organization studies, psychology, communication science, disability studies, or related fields. Proficiency in Dutch and English (C1 level) is required, or the ability to reach this level within 6–9 months. Candidates should demonstrate interest and preferably experience in qualitative research, work and technology, inclusion, digital labour, institutional change, and social innovation. Strong analytical and communication skills, as well as motivation to create societal impact, are essential.

The position offers a competitive salary (€3,059–€3,881 gross/month), 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, 232–328 annual leave hours, hybrid working options, free campus sports facilities, and funding for conferences and training. The PhD will be part of the Twente Graduate School training programme and have access to strong academic and societal networks.

To apply, candidates should submit a motivation letter, CV, academic transcripts, MSc thesis (or English summary), and contact details for two academic referees via the University of Twente careers portal by March 31, 2026. Interviews are scheduled for April 8, 2026, with the position starting in September 2026. For more information, contact Dr. Jeroen Meijerink at [email protected].

This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about digital work, social innovation, and making a real impact on labour market inclusion for marginalized groups.