PhD on System Integration of Greenhouse Horticulture Energy Hubs Leiden University in Netherlands

This PhD position at Leiden University focuses on the system integration of greenhouse horticulture energy hubs, aiming to transform greenhouses from energy consumers into hubs that generate, convert, and store energy for both local use and the wider energy grid. The project is conducted in collaboration with TU Delft and is part of the SPROUT project funded by RVO. The research addresses the technical, governance, and social challenges of implementing system-positive energy hubs, with the goal of supporting the sector's transition to carbon neutrality by 2040 and mitigating grid congestion.

As a PhD candidate, you will upscale models and tools developed by other work packages, identify viable business models for system-positive operation, quantify barriers to adoption, and optimize hub archetypes for large-scale implementation. The project also explores synergies with neighboring hubs and regional infrastructure to strengthen business cases and overcome challenges.

The Institute of Environmental Science (CML) at Leiden University offers a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment with a strong focus on sustainability, professional development, and academic freedom. CML collaborates with TU Delft, Erasmus University, and the Naturalis Biodiversity Centre, and is part of the Faculty of Science, which hosts diverse research activities across mathematics, information science, astronomy, physics, chemistry, bio-pharmaceutical sciences, biology, and environmental sciences.

Applicants should have a MSc degree relevant to the topic, proficiency in Python or similar modelling tools, experience with complex systems and datasets, analytical thinking, scientific writing skills, and an interest in interdisciplinary science, including governance and social sciences. The university values inclusiveness and diversity, welcoming candidates from all backgrounds.

The position offers an initial one-year contract, extendable up to four years based on performance, with a salary ranging from €3,059 to €3,881 gross per month. Benefits include holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, home-working allowance, laptop, flexible working hours, and access to training courses through the Graduate School of Science. The university provides a supportive environment for professional and personal growth, with options for sabbaticals, paid parental leave, and other secondary employment conditions.

To apply, submit your application via the online recruitment system, including your CV, cover letter (max 2 pages), and contact details of at least two referees, quoting the vacancy number. The deadline for applications is 25 June 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Peter van Bodegom or Dr. Francesco Lombardi.

For more details about the Institute of Environmental Science and the Faculty of Science, visit Leiden University Faculty of Science and CML. Information about working conditions and diversity policies can be found at Working at Leiden University and Diversity at Leiden University.