PhD in Behavioral and Cognitive Mechanisms of Sustainable Consumer Food Choices University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position in the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), focusing on the behavioral and cognitive mechanisms underlying sustainable consumer food choices. The research aims to understand how forgotten protein crops such as aardaker, white lupin, and quinoa can be integrated into everyday consumer diets. The project employs immersive virtual reality supermarket and dining simulations, eye-tracking technology, and behavioral experiments to analyze consumer decisions and attention in realistic environments.

The successful candidate will join the Cognition, Data and Education (CoDE) group at the University of Twente and collaborate with the Marketing and Consumer Behaviour Group at Wageningen University, as well as a national consortium of universities and industry partners under the REAP2SOW programme. The research will explore how product properties, multisensory experiences, and presentation strategies influence consumer acceptance and decision-making. The candidate will design and evaluate interventions to promote sustainable protein consumption, publish scientific articles, and complete a PhD dissertation.

Applicants should hold an MSc in cognitive psychology, computer science, consumer behavior, human-media interaction, or a related field. Experience or interest in experimental design, mixed-methods research, eye-tracking, and VR studies is required. Strong analytical and statistical skills, proficiency in English, and the ability to communicate with both scientific and non-scientific audiences are essential. The position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,059–€3,881, holiday and end-of-year bonuses, pension scheme, 29 holidays per year, and family-friendly policies. The start date is April 2026 (flexible), and the application deadline is 28 February 2026.

For more information, contact Dr. Funda Yildirim ([email protected]). To apply, submit a CV and cover letter via the University of Twente careers portal. The selection process includes interviews and may require a presentation. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of psychology, computer science, and sustainable food systems.