PhD Position on Ecodesign and Mitigation of Rebound Effects (Sustainability)

TL;DR

PhD Position on Ecodesign and Mitigation of Rebound Effects (Sustainability): Investigating rebound effects in eco-design to develop conceptual frameworks and practical tools for designers with an accent on systemic responses and environmental gains. Focus on mapping rebound patterns, conducting in-depth case studies, and refining predictive methods in collaboration with European companies.

Location: Onsite in Delft, Netherlands. Must comply with the international mobility rule: not resident or working in the Netherlands for more than 12 months during the 36 months preceding 01/10/2026.

Salary: €3,059 – €3,881 gross per month

Company

hirify.global is a top international university combining science, engineering, and design to address global challenges in energy, climate, mobility, health, and digital society.

What you will do

• Conduct a systematic review of documented rebound cases to map mechanisms and categorize patterns.
• Perform in-depth studies of current eco-design cases to uncover contextual factors and interrelations of rebound effects.
• Develop and refine a predictive method for identifying and mitigating rebound effects in collaboration with designers and stakeholders.
• Execute real-world case studies in partnership with European companies.
• Participate in two international secondments of 2-3 months each to gain exposure to industrial design practice.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Ecology, or a closely related field.
• Clear affinity with design engineering for candidates without a design engineering background.
• Demonstrated strong interest in design for sustainability and/or circular economy.
• Strong scientific writing skills and effective communication in English.
• Compliance with the international mobility rule regarding residency in the Netherlands.

Culture & Benefits

• 4-year employment period (structured as two contracts) with regular progress assessments.
• Salary according to the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, including 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
• Enrolment in the hirify.global Graduate School with access to a dedicated Doctoral Education Programme.
• Customizable compensation package and discounts on health insurance.
• Comprehensive relocation support via the "Coming to Delft Service" and a Dual Career Programme for partners.
• Flexible work schedules.