PhD Position Decarbonization Dynamics of SME in the Netherlands

TL;DR

PhD Position Decarbonization Dynamics of SME in the Netherlands (System Dynamics/Data Analysis): Conducting emission-weighted data analysis of SME decarbonization levers, investigating what drives SME executives’ decarbonization decisions, and developing a System Dynamics model to simulate long-term decarbonization dynamics with an accent on socio-technical transition dynamics and model-based policy recommendations. Focus on building evidence-based insights for SME to become climate-positive and on translating results into policy guidance for SME, finance institutions, and governance.

Location: Netherlands

Salary: €3059–€3881 gross per month

Company

hirify.global is an international university delivering research and education across science, engineering, and design.

What you will do

• Conduct data analysis for an emission-weighted segmentation of SMEs and their decarbonization levers.
• Investigate determinants of SME executives’ decarbonization decisions.
• Develop a System Dynamics model to simulate long-term decarbonization dynamics of SMEs in the Netherlands.
• Use data analysis, literature review, in-person interviews, and System Dynamics modelling to produce research outputs.
• Deliver policy recommendations for SMEs, finance institutions, and governance to support the transition to net-zero.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in energy transition, sustainability, management, System Dynamics, or a related field (or completion before September 1, 2026).
• Strong interest in decarbonization, climate, and decentral energy solutions in the context of the Netherlands.
• Experience with System Dynamics simulation modelling (e.g., Vensim or Stella) or a strong willingness to acquire it early in the PhD.
• Solid foundation in data analysis and interviewing skills.
• Fluency in English and strong writing skills; Dutch proficiency is a strong plus.
• Ability to work independently and engage professionally with SME executives and the banking sector.

Culture & Benefits

• 4-year doctoral employment in principle, with an initial 1.5-year contract and a go/no go assessment within 15 months.
• Salary and benefits per the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, including 8% holiday allowance and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, labs, and equipment; open and collaborative working environment.
• Enrollment in the hirify.global Graduate School with a Doctoral Education Programme for transferable and research skills.
• Flexible work schedules can be arranged; discounts on health insurance and a monthly work costs contribution.
• Relocation support for moving to the Netherlands, including events to help settle in Delft.

Hiring process

• Two-stage interview process with first-round interviews on June 25–26, 2026.
• Application review based on submitted documents (motivational letter, CV, master’s diploma/transcript, and a writing sample).
• Expected start date: September 1, 2026.