"Fully-funded PhD in Environmental Heritage of the Afsluitdijk Area"

Job Summary

The University of Groningen offers a 4-year fully-funded PhD position to develop a sustainable seascape heritage science and policy program in the Afsluitdijk Area of the Netherlands. This interdisciplinary project involves studying the impact of the Afsluitdijk on the Zuiderzee ecosystem through biomolecular-archaeological analysis, and examining landscape and sustainability perceptions via archival research and interviews. The candidate will create an interactive map and contribute to inclusive dialogues on climate change.

Responsibilities

• Carry out original interdisciplinary research combining marine (historical) ecology, heritage, and spatial policy design in consultation with supervisors.
• Write and submit a PhD thesis consisting of 2 co-authored peer-reviewed articles, an annotated digital interactive map, and a science-based policy document within the 4-year appointment.
• Present preliminary research results at scientific workshops and conferences.
• Organise at least 2 collaborative knowledge dissemination activities with academic communities, NGOs, policy makers, and other stakeholders.
• Teach courses at bachelor’s level and/or assist at Master’s level, amounting to 0.4 FTE over the second, third, and fourth years.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Creative and proactive approach to interdisciplinary empirical research, multi-proxy analysis, and writing.
• Ability to conduct research accurately in lab, digital, and archival work, and communicate articulately through interviews.
• Enthusiasm for communicating academic research to non-academic audiences, especially in collaboration with policy makers, nature managers, and communities.
• A completed or nearly completed Master’s degree in a related field such as archaeology, ecology, marine biology, geography, history, anthropology, heritage, historical ecology, or environmental history; interdisciplinary backgrounds are encouraged.
• If not yet completed, provide a signed letter from your supervisor stating graduation before 1 December 2025.
• Excellent command of English meeting the university’s requirements.
• Good command of Dutch.
• Strong digital and quantitative skills, such as GIS and statistical skills.

What the Employer Offers

A 4-year temporary appointment with a salary ranging from €2,901 to €3,707 gross per month for a full-time position, based on the collective bargaining agreement for Dutch universities. Benefits include 8% holiday allowance, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, participation in a pension scheme, and favourable tax agreements for non-Dutch applicants. The position requires residence in the Netherlands, with an initial 12-month contract extendable after assessment.