PhD position on Circular Construction Management & Engineering Futures University of Twente in Netherlands

The University of Twente offers a PhD position focused on Circular Construction Management & Engineering Futures, as part of the NWO-funded FUTURED project. This research opportunity addresses the transformation of the built environment, rethinking it as an 'urban mine' where materials are recovered and recirculated to enable more circular futures. The project investigates how construction professionals adapt their practices across the building lifecycle, from design and construction to demolition and reuse, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, digitalisation, and workforce development.

As a PhD candidate, you will conduct in-depth case studies using ethnographic observations, interviews, and document analyses to understand how digital tools and new approaches are reshaping construction processes. Your research will focus on real-world practices, examining the interactions between tools, organisational structures, regulations, and collaboration among designers, contractors, and demolition actors. You will analyse tensions between circularity ambitions and economic or practical constraints, aiming to develop digital solutions and actionable recommendations for large-scale adoption of material reuse and sustainable practices.

The FUTURED project unites seven research institutions and 20 societal partners to address labour shortages in the Dutch construction sector, aiming to equip professionals with the skills and tools needed for a sustainable and digitally advanced built environment. The University of Twente's Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) is committed to developing smart, sustainable, human-centred solutions for societal challenges, connecting education, research, and practice across domains such as Asset & Maintenance Engineering, Intelligent Manufacturing Systems, and Sustainable Production, Energy and Resources.

The position offers a four-year full-time contract, with a qualifier in the first year and flexibility for partial remote work. The salary ranges from €3059 to €3881 per month, with additional benefits including holiday allowance, end-of-year bonus, pension scheme, generous leave hours, free access to sports facilities, and parental leave. You will participate in a training programme through the Twente Graduate School, with tailored education and supervision plans.

Applicants should hold or soon obtain a master's degree in Construction Management & Engineering, Civil Engineering & Management, Architecture, Business Administration, Organizational Studies, or a related field. Affinity with qualitative research methods, creativity, analytical and communication skills, and proficiency in English are required. Dutch language skills are preferred or willingness to learn. Non-Dutch applicants without prior English-medium education must provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS ≥ 6.5, TOEFL-iBT ≥ 90, or Cambridge CAE-C/CPE).

To apply, submit your application via the provided link before June 8, including a cover letter, CV, and proof of English proficiency if applicable. Interviews are scheduled for June 15. For further information, contact Dr. Marc van den Berg at [email protected].

This PhD position is ideal for candidates passionate about advancing circular construction, digitalisation, and sustainable engineering practices, and who wish to contribute to shaping the future workforce in the built environment.