The University of Groningen’s Faculty of Spatial Sciences is offering a fully funded PhD position in Economic Geography, focusing on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the geography of work. This research opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in the intersection of AI, urban studies, and economic development, particularly how AI adoption is reshaping the benefits cities provide, the organization of work, and the persistence of agglomeration economies. The project, funded by a Starting Grant from the Faculty of Spatial Sciences, will be supervised by Prof. Sierdjan Koster, Dr Femke Cnossen, and Dr Conor O’Driscoll. The PhD candidate will develop a theoretical framework linking agglomeration mechanisms with the reorganization of work under AI, followed by three empirical studies using quantitative methods. The research will address questions such as whether AI strengthens or weakens urban productivity mechanisms, how it influences the role of cities as engines of growth, and how it reshapes work organization across firms and cities. Applicants should hold (or be near completion of) a (Research) Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., geography, economics, labour market studies, demography, sociology), possess strong quantitative research skills, and demonstrate fluency in English. Experience in academic writing, conceptual thinking, and a proactive, independent work attitude are highly valued. The position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881, 232 vacation hours per year, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, 8% holiday allowance, and extensive professional development opportunities. The initial contract is for 12 months, with a possible extension for three more years based on satisfactory progress. The PhD researcher will join the Department of Economic Geography, contributing to research and teaching activities, and will be part of an interdisciplinary faculty engaged in planning, demography, and geography. The Faculty of Spatial Sciences is committed to addressing societal challenges such as climate, prosperity, and sustainable energy, and offers a vibrant, inclusive academic community. To apply, candidates should submit a CV, motivation letter, Master diploma and transcripts (or proof of enrolment), and contact details of two referees via the University of Groningen’s official portal. The application deadline is 1 February 2026, with interviews scheduled for 13 February 2026. For further information, contact Dr Femke Cnossen at [email protected]. Relevant academic keywords: Economic Geography, Artificial Intelligence, Urban Studies, Labour Market, Agglomeration Economies, Regional Development, Quantitative Methods.

The University of Groningen's Faculty of Spatial Sciences is offering a fully funded PhD position in Economic Geography, focusing on the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the geography of work. The project, titled 'AI and the new geography of work,' investigates how AI adoption is reshaping the economic benefits of cities, the persistence of agglomeration economies, and the organization of work across firms and urban areas. The research will address whether AI strengthens or weakens urban productivity mechanisms and how it influences cities as engines of growth and development. The PhD candidate will develop a theoretical framework linking agglomeration mechanisms with the reorganization of work under AI, followed by three empirical studies using quantitative methods. The project proposal will be refined in collaboration with supervisors during the first three months. The position is supervised by Prof. Sierdjan Koster, Dr. Femke Cnossen, and Dr. Conor O’Driscoll, all based at the University of Groningen. Key responsibilities include writing a PhD thesis comprising four first-authored articles, presenting research at national and international conferences, engaging with policy and public audiences, and participating in teaching activities within the Faculty of Spatial Sciences. The department is internationally recognized for research in regional labour market dynamics, socio-economic disparities, transport, mobility, and real estate. Applicants should hold or be near completion of a (Research) Master’s degree in a relevant field such as geography, economics, labour market studies, demography, or sociology. Strong English writing skills, experience in academic writing, conceptual thinking, quantitative research skills, and a proactive attitude are essential. The position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881, 232 vacation hours per year, an 8.3% end-of-year bonus, and an 8% holiday allowance. The initial contract is for 12 months, extendable for three more years upon satisfactory progress. The preferred start date is March 1, 2026. To apply, submit your CV, motivation letter, Master diploma and transcripts (or proof of enrolment), and contact details of two referees via the University of Groningen's application portal. The application deadline is February 1, 2026, and interviews will be held on February 13, 2026. For more information, contact Dr. Femke Cnossen ([email protected]). The University of Groningen is committed to diversity, inclusion, and a supportive academic environment.