Social tipping dynamics in energy transitions occur when a small change or intervention has a large effect on emission reductions. Tipping occurs for example when clean technologies such as electric vehicle become cheaper than fossil fuel cars or when more sustainable behaviors such as energy saving or cycling become the norm. The FAST project aims to explain and model social tipping dynamics and interventions in energy transitions. Understanding and mobilizing social tipping dynamics is crucial to accelerate the energy transition.

As a PhD student, you will do empirical research into social tipping dynamics using qualitative and quantitative research approaches, looking into technology-driven solutions as well as socio-economic and behavioral drivers for the energy transition. You will join a young and vibrant multidisciplinary team working on accelerating sustainability transitions and will participate in PhD training and project workshops. You will be part of a larger group of PhD students that work on similar topics (have a look at the NEON project and the TIS website for an impression).

We look for highly motivated candidates that

• Hold (or are close to obtaining) a very good Master's degree in the social sciences ( Innovation Sciences, Transition studies, Sustainable Energy Technologies, quantitative and computational social sciences, Sociology (social network analysis).
• Have expertise in qualitative or quantitative research methods.
• Are fluent in spoken and written English.
• Have excellent scientific writing and planning skills. 
• Have programming skills, or experience with simulation modelling or are willing to learn.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• The successful candidates will be offered a full-time PhD position, initially for one year. Upon good performance, the contract will be extended for three more years.
• You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 27. The gross monthly salary ranges between €2,541 in the first year and €3,247 in the fourth year of employment per month for full-time employment.
• The salary is supplemented by a holiday allowance of 8% per year and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.