Postdoc in Polluter and Wealth Elites for Just Socio-Ecological Transitions Université libre de Bruxelles in

Postdoctoral opportunity in Brussels on polluter elites, wealth elites, and just socio-ecological transitions.

The Decarbonisation and Justice Chair (SWIFFT Collective, Université libre de Bruxelles / Vrije Universiteit Brussel) is recruiting a 4-year full-time postdoctoral researcher to contribute to an interdisciplinary research agenda on how privileged groups shape carbon-intensive regimes and how justice can be advanced in socio-ecological transitions.

This position sits at the intersection of elite sociology, ecological economics, political ecology, political science, urban studies, economic geography, and related fields. The successful candidate will help develop and coordinate the Chair’s research agenda, co-supervise two PhD students, and design an independent research project aligned with the broader theme of polluter and/or wealth elites and just transitions.

Research context: The Chair is part of a collaborative initiative between ULB and VUB and is based within the Urban and Socio-Environmental Transformations Research Hub (USET). The project aims to build a long-term research hub on socio-ecological justice issues and to support science-policy dialogue for just decarbonisation in Belgium.

Eligibility highlights: Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant discipline. A strong research profile connected to the Chair’s agenda is preferred. Experience with multi- and interdisciplinary projects is an advantage, and openness to transdisciplinarity and post-normal science is welcomed. The call also notes that a constructivist epistemic positioning may facilitate integration into the group.

Responsibilities: Research leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration across two universities and two research centers, co-supervision of PhD students, possible limited MA-level teaching, and contribution to methodological/theoretical innovation. The role may also involve helping consolidate future funding through third-party research budgets at Belgian and European levels.

Application package: CV, motivation letter (max 2 pages), two academic references, a statement on teaching and research expertise (max 1 page), and a 4-year research project (max 4 pages). Files must follow the requested naming format.

Deadline: 3 September 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an on-site or online interview.