Detlef van Vuuren

Join the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development at Utrecht University as a PhD candidate within the EMBRACER project, focusing on the integrated assessment modelling of climate feedbacks, tipping points, and uncertainties. This position is embedded in the Faculty of Geosciences, Department of Sustainable Development, and offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the advancement of climate policy strategies through robust scientific research. As a PhD student, you will work on improving the representation of feedbacks, tipping points, and extreme events in the MIMOSA integrated assessment model (IAM), which links climate dynamics with socio-economic processes. Your tasks will include developing an inventory of critical feedbacks, translating them into model representations, and conducting uncertainty analyses to evaluate their impact on cost-effective climate pathways. You will also explore the expansion of MIMOSA with a simplified energy system module and investigate its linkages with the more detailed IMAGE model. Collaboration with colleagues in climate science, systems modelling, and policy analysis is a key aspect of this interdisciplinary project. The EMBRACER programme, funded by NWO, brings together world-leading climate experts to address uncertainties about climate feedbacks at the boundaries between oceans, land, ice, and atmosphere. The Environmental Sciences group at the Copernicus Institute is dedicated to understanding the interactions between terrestrial ecosystems and global environmental change, providing a stimulating environment for your research and professional development. Eligibility: Applicants should have a Master’s degree in physics, environmental sciences, mathematics, systems science, computational science, or a related field. Strong scientific programming and quantitative analysis skills (preferably in Python), an affinity with climate science and/or policy modelling, and excellent English communication skills are required. Independence, eagerness to learn, and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary team are essential. Funding: The position is for one year initially, with extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment. The gross monthly salary ranges from €3,059 to €3,881, with additional benefits including 8% holiday pay, 8.3% year-end bonus, a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment terms. Utrecht University also offers professional development opportunities and a supportive, inclusive work environment. Application: Submit your application via the Utrecht University online portal by 19 December 2025. Include your motivation letter, CV, and contact details for at least two referees. For more information, you may contact Prof. Dr Detlef van Vuuren or Dr Kaj-Ivar van der Wijst. This PhD opportunity is ideal for candidates passionate about climate science, modelling, and sustainability, seeking to make a meaningful impact on climate policy and research.