Peter Berrill
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PhD Researcher: Environmental Impacts of Spatial Demographic Change Leiden University in Netherlands
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
Paid PhD position on Dutch university pay scale P, with salary from €3,204 gross per month in the first year to €4,051 gross per month in the last year for a full-time position; initial one-year contract with extension up to three further years based on performance.
Deadline
Jan 11, 2027
Country
Netherlands
University
Leiden University
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About this position
PhD Researcher: Environmental Impacts of Spatial Demographic Change at Leiden University’s Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) and Faculty of Science is a research project at the intersection of demographic change, spatial analysis, and environmental sustainability.
The project examines how spatial population distribution, population ageing, smaller households, and urban form combine to shape future resource demand and greenhouse gas emissions. The research is designed to identify trade-offs between the efficiency benefits of urban density and the environmental consequences of vacant buildings and underused infrastructure in depopulating regions.
The PhD researcher will develop high-resolution activity demand models for building and transport sectors under spatially refined European demographic scenarios, link these projections to material flow and life-cycle models, and quantify implications for energy use, material intensity, and emissions. The work also includes assessing adaptive reuse and circular strategies for vacant buildings and transport infrastructure, and designing integrated spatial planning scenarios for high-wellbeing, low-resource pathways across urban and rural contexts.
You will be based at CML, a collaborative environmental science institute within Leiden University that emphasizes sustainability research, interdisciplinarity, professional development, and a supportive academic environment. The faculty context adds a broad scientific setting and access to an international research community at Leiden’s Bio Science Park.
The project is especially relevant for students interested in geospatial and environmental analysis, urban and regional development, and the environmental implications of changing population structures.
Funding details
Paid PhD position on Dutch university pay scale P, with salary from €3,204 gross per month in the first year to €4,051 gross per month in the last year for a full-time position; initial one-year contract with extension up to three further years based on performance.
What's required
A master's degree in Sustainability Sciences, Urban Planning, Engineering, Geospatial Science, or a related discipline is required. Applicants should have written and oral proficiency in English, strong scientific writing, and good visual and verbal communication skills. The role requires a collaborative mindset, the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary environment, experience with GIS analysis, large quantitative datasets, and programming, plus experience with or willingness to learn Material Flow Analysis and Life Cycle Assessment. A keen interest in the intersection of societal demographic changes and environmental management, and a creative, curiosity-driven approach to problem solving, are expected.
How to apply
Apply through the online recruitment system using the blue button on the vacancy page. Upload a CV, a cover letter of max 2 pages, and the names and contact details of at least two referees. Do not submit applications by email.
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Professors
Prof. dr. at Leiden University
Netherlands
Research Interests
Statistics
Spatial Analysis
Geography
Civil Engineering
Sociology
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.