The University of Twente is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on the social dynamics of energy communities within the Dutch energy transition. This research opportunity is part of the SYNERGY project, which investigates how social and political dynamics influence the scaling and effectiveness of energy communities, with a particular emphasis on collective action, governance, and energy justice. The project adopts a transdisciplinary approach, integrating participatory action research, longitudinal case studies, and stakeholder engagement to produce actionable knowledge and inform inclusive energy policymaking. The PhD candidate will join the Section of Governance and Technology for Sustainability (CSTM) at the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), collaborating with Delft University of Technology and other Dutch institutions. Research topics include smart grid experimentation, energy sharing in rural regions, and developing energy communities in urban settings such as Amsterdam Southeast. The position involves one day per week of departmental work, including teaching support. Applicants should have a master’s degree in social sciences or a multidisciplinary field such as sociology, human geography, social psychology, communication sciences, public administration, innovation studies, or STS. Affinity with energy technology, especially smart grids, and experience in participatory workshops and action research are highly valued. Candidates must demonstrate strong communication skills and fluency in both Dutch and English (C1 level). Minor teaching activities and supervision of graduation students are part of the role. The position offers a four-year contract with a competitive salary (€3,059–€3,881 gross/month), generous leave allowances, free access to sports facilities, and family-friendly policies. The successful candidate will participate in a tailored training programme through Twente Graduate School. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, writing sample, and references, and be submitted by December 22, 2025. For further information, contact Prof. Thomas Hoppe at [email protected]. This opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about sustainability, governance, and the intersection of technology and society, seeking to contribute to the Dutch energy transition through innovative, socially engaged research.

The University of Twente, specifically the section of Governance and Technology for Sustainability (CSTM), is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on the social dynamics of energy communities within the Dutch energy transition. This research opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of sustainability, governance, and social sciences, with a particular emphasis on how communities organize and adapt in the context of shifting energy systems. The successful candidate will join a vibrant research group led by Professor Thomas Hoppe, working on cutting-edge topics such as energy transition, social innovation, and the governance of rural-urban systems. The project will explore the role of social dynamics in the formation and functioning of energy communities, contributing to both academic knowledge and practical solutions for sustainable energy futures in the Netherlands. The position offers a competitive gross monthly salary between €3,059 and €3,881, with full employment benefits and tuition coverage. Applicants should hold a relevant master's degree (e.g., in environmental science, sociology, or related fields) and demonstrate a strong interest in sustainability, social dynamics, and energy transition. The working language is English, and candidates are expected to have good research and communication skills. The application deadline is January 12, 2026. Interested candidates should apply through the University of Twente's official careers portal, where further details about the position and application requirements are available. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to impactful research in a supportive and innovative academic environment.

This PhD position investigates the social dynamics of energy communities within the context of the Dutch energy transition. The project focuses on how collective action, collaborative governance, and various social dynamics—such as contestation, resistance, and conflict—can either accelerate or hinder the scaling and effectiveness of energy communities (ECs) in the Netherlands. By adopting a system perspective, the research aims to understand the transformative co-evolution of social and technical change in energy systems, moving beyond traditional mono-disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches to access the lived experiences, perceptions, and behaviors of energy community members. The research will employ qualitative exploratory methods, including longitudinal case studies and participatory action research (PAR), across diverse use cases. These range from smart grid experimentation and energy sharing in rural regions to the development of energy communities in urban settings like Amsterdam Southeast. The position is part of the SYNERGY project (Social dYnamics in eNergy systems: Resilience, Governance, and policY), funded under the National Science Agenda (NWA) call Social Dynamics in the Energy Transition. SYNERGY is a collaborative effort involving University of Twente, Delft University of Technology, Utrecht University, University of Tilburg, Eindhoven University of Technology, Avans University of Appliances, and TNO. SYNERGY explores how social dynamics among end users—citizens and SMEs—shape behaviors that impact the Dutch energy transition. The project adopts a transdisciplinary approach, integrating simulations, participatory methods, and co-creation with stakeholders to produce actionable knowledge, tools, and process interventions. A key emphasis is placed on energy justice, addressing inequalities in participation and access, and informing effective, inclusive energy policymaking. The project also supports practitioners and extends theoretical frameworks on social dynamics in energy transitions through its community of practice. The successful PhD candidate will be based in the Section of Governance and Technology for Sustainability (CSTM) at the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands, with supervision in collaboration with Delft University of Technology. The BMS Faculty is known for its tech-savvy social scientists and its commitment to innovative, responsible, and value-creating research and education. The CSTM section specializes in governance for sustainable development, resilience, environmental quality, social inclusiveness, and technological innovation, with a strong history in environmental policy and global sustainable development. Applicants are expected to submit a cover letter, CV, writing sample, and references. The application deadline is December 22nd, 2025. For more information about the position, prospective candidates may contact Prof. Dr. Thomas Hoppe. The University of Twente offers a vibrant, inclusive, and entrepreneurial environment, providing opportunities for personal and professional growth within a leading technical university committed to positive social impact.