The Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) at Leiden University invites applications for a PhD position focused on advancing a systems perspective on wellbeing, moving beyond GDP through input-output analysis. This research aims to bridge gaps in current socio-ecological transition frameworks by integrating both production- and consumption-side wellbeing indicators, such as working hours, labour conditions, gender and income equality, needs satisfaction, energy use, and life expectancy. The successful candidate will utilize the global MARIO input-output database and survey data to analyze wellbeing across society, including factors like leisure time, unpaid work, and social relationships, providing a comprehensive overview of wellbeing within and beyond the production-consumption sphere.

The project will also link national and European household consumption data to explore demographic and regional variations in wellbeing, offering insights into pathways for achieving socially just climate policy and post-growth economic models. The research is supervised by Assistant Professor Lena Kilian and Associate Professor Rutger Hoekstra, both experts in environmental science and socio-ecological transitions.

Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, is renowned for its vibrant, international academic community and commitment to sustainability. The Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) offers a collaborative and supportive environment, with strong professional development opportunities and interdisciplinary research spanning environmental science, industrial ecology, and ecological economics. CML is part of the Faculty of Science, which is located in the heart of Leiden’s Bio Science Park and collaborates with leading institutions such as TU Delft and Erasmus University.

Funding and Benefits: The position offers an initial one-year contract, extendable up to four years, with a gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881. Additional benefits include an 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, attractive pension scheme, 30.5 vacation days per year, flexible and hybrid working options, home-working allowance, and comprehensive support for professional and personal development. PhD students are part of the Graduate School of Science, with access to a wide range of training courses.

Eligibility: Applicants must have a Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Industrial Ecology, Ecological Economics, Geography), strong programming skills (Python or R preferred), experience with input-output analysis, and proficiency in English. Knowledge of statistical and spatial analysis methods is required or a willingness to learn. The university values diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the online recruitment system by January 25, 2026. Required documents include a CV, cover letter (max 2 pages), and contact details for at least two referees. For further information, contact Lena Kilian at [email protected]. More details about the institute and working conditions can be found on the university’s website.