PhD Candidate in Environmental Psychology and Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Household Interventions
The Department of Psychology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD Candidate in Environmental Psychology, focusing on the intersection of psychology and artificial intelligence (AI) to promote sustainable household interventions. NTNU is a leading technical-scientific university based in Trondheim, Norway, with a strong commitment to professional education and research for societal impact.
This interdisciplinary PhD project builds on the EU ENCHANT initiative, which collected electricity usage data from 2400 European households and implemented psychologically informed interventions to reduce energy consumption. Leveraging machine learning, the project developed algorithms that tailor intervention strategies to household socio-psychological profiles, achieving significantly improved energy savings. The next phase, led by the PhD candidate, will use generative AI to dynamically customize intervention messages and visuals, integrating these solutions with smart steering and measurement systems in pilot households.
The successful candidate will join the 'Citizens, Environment and Safety' research group, collaborating with experts in psychology and AI. Responsibilities include training the AI tailoring engine, providing scientifically robust input, defining operational boundaries, and testing the prototype in real households. The project aims to assess both qualitative and quantitative impacts of these interventions, contributing to academic publications and popular science dissemination.
Applicants must hold a relevant Master's degree in Psychology or equivalent, with a strong academic record (grade B or better on NTNU's scale). Master students may apply if their degree is completed by 31 August 2026. Required skills include solid methodological expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, collaborative ability with computer science and cybernetics, and proficiency in English. Preferred qualifications include experience in environmental psychology, behaviour change theory, intervention design, generative AI, empirical field work, interdisciplinary teamwork, and Scandinavian language abilities.
The position offers a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800, with a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund. The employment period is three years, and candidates must gain admission to the PhD programme in Social Science within three months of starting. NTNU provides a supportive, inclusive, and diverse working environment, career guidance, working capital for project implementation, and access to employee benefits including Norwegian language training and favorable pension terms.
To apply, submit your application electronically via Jobbnorge.no, including transcripts, diplomas, CV, master's thesis, project outline, motivation letter, publications, certificates, and contact information for three referees. If invited to interview, bring certified copies of certificates and diplomas. The application deadline is 31 August 2026.
For questions about the position, contact Professor Christian A. Klöckner at [email protected]. For recruitment process inquiries, contact Ina Halvorsen at [email protected]. NTNU values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds. The university is located in Trondheim, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene, excellent welfare system, and opportunities for education, nature, and family life.
Join NTNU and contribute to knowledge for a better world through innovative research in environmental psychology and AI.
