PhD Position JUST FUTURES: ReStor(y)ing (Un)just Land-Water Relationships Through Art-activism University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente invites applications for a fully funded PhD position as part of the JUST ART project, focusing on 'ReStor(y)ing (Un)just Land-Water Relationships Through Art-activism.' This interdisciplinary research opportunity aims to develop a 'rurban' lens to examine rural-urban (dis)connections in land-water relationships, with case studies in regions such as Twente and Aruba, both of which have experienced water scarcity. The project leverages environmental art-activism to 're-story' these relationships, foregrounding more-than-human voices and marginalized perspectives through situated narratives and creative collaborations with artists and artistic residencies.

As a PhD candidate, you will explore the potential of art-activism for climate justice, working within the broader JUST ART consortium—a six-year initiative funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) and led by the University of Groningen. The consortium brings together artists, researchers, campaigners, and communities across the Kingdom of the Netherlands to cultivate diverse strategies for climate justice through artistic research and creative practice. You will collaborate with societal and cultural partners to support creative dissemination and public engagement, including events at Rijksmuseum Twente and pop-up activities in community centers and case study locations.

The position is embedded in the Knowledge, Transformation & Society (KiTeS) section of the Technology, Policy & Society department, and affiliated with the RUrban Futures Collective and ArtEZ, University of the Arts, Enschede. You will be supervised by Dr. Corelia Baibarac Duignan, Dr. Steven McGreevy, and Prof. Esther Turnhout, and benefit from a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment with opportunities for collaboration and exchange. The project scope is flexible and can be refined in consultation with the supervisory team and the wider JUST ART community.

Applicants should have or be about to obtain a Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Science and Technology Studies, Sustainability Transitions, Political Ecology, Anthropology, Design, Futures Studies). Excellent research skills, demonstrated by an outstanding Master’s thesis, are required. Experience with participatory, transdisciplinary, or art-based research methods is desirable, as is prior knowledge of climate justice frameworks. Good command of English is essential; Dutch and other languages are advantageous. Candidates must be available for regular presence at the University of Twente and for fieldwork in the Netherlands and Aruba.

The offer includes a full-time, 4-year PhD position with a qualifying evaluation in the first year, excellent mentorship, and a personal development program within the Twente Graduate School. The gross monthly salary starts at €3,059 and increases to €3,881 in the fourth year, with additional benefits such as holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, and 29 holidays per year. Full employee status is provided, including pension and healthcare benefits.

To apply, submit your application online by 27 March 2026, including a CV, cover letter, writing sample, and (if available) a portfolio of artistic work. Provide names and contact details of two references and official copies of diplomas and transcripts. The selection process includes two rounds of interviews, and shortlisted candidates will be asked to submit a short research proposal. The desired start date is 1 September 2026.

Join a leading technical university with a strong social impact, and contribute to innovative research at the intersection of art, activism, and climate justice. For more information, visit the JUST ART project website or the University of Twente careers portal.