PhD Position (Fully Funded): Circular Economy & Management Control in SMEs University of Montpellier in France

The University of Montpellier in France is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on the intersection of circular economy and management control systems in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Hosted within the Montpellier Research in Management (MRM) unit, this opportunity is supervised by Dr. Jean-Marie COURRENT and Dr. Chaffik BAKKALI. The project runs for three years, from September 1, 2026, to August 31, 2029, and aims to generate actionable insights for SME owner-managers and contribute to sustainability and management accounting research.

The research investigates how SMEs structure circular economy steering and how different management control system (MCS) packages—combining planning, performance measures, incentives, and cultural controls—relate to the intensity of circular practices and perceived economic and environmental performance. Key research questions include why some SMEs develop structured approaches to circular economy steering, which MCS configurations are associated with more intensive circular practices, and how performance measurement influences decision-making and outcomes. The project also explores how SMEs coordinate circular practices across value-chain relationships.

Data collection is highly feasible, leveraging institutional business networks and partner organizations for questionnaire dissemination and sampling. The supervisors’ team collaborates with professional survey institutes, enabling access to larger and more diverse SME samples. The research will primarily use quantitative methods based on survey data from owner-managers, with potential for multi-wave and longitudinal designs.

PhD candidates will benefit from close supervision, integration into a vibrant research environment, structured doctoral training, and participation in MRM seminars and workshops. The position offers hands-on experience in research design, survey implementation, and advanced quantitative analyses, as well as opportunities for international collaboration, co-authorship, and conference presentations.

Applicants must hold or be near completion of a Master’s degree in management, accounting/management control, organizational behavior, or related fields. A strong interest in research at the intersection of management control and the circular economy, academic writing skills, and proficiency in English are required. The selection process includes an in-person interview in Montpellier in early July 2026; remote interviews are not possible.

To apply, email your CV, motivation letter, and academic transcripts to [email protected] before May 10, 2026. For more information, visit the University of Montpellier’s website or the position link provided.