Postdoctoral researcher on Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration in Decentralized Energy Solutions

School of Economics & Management, Tilburg University

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Vacancy

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Description

A postdoctoral research position is being offered at Tilburg University’s School of Economics & Management, focusing on collaborative governance and stakeholder networks in decentralized energy systems. The role is embedded within the Joule4Joule Project, a multi-sector consortium aimed at reshaping future energy networks through innovative infrastructure design and cooperative stakeholder engagement. 

Responsibilities

As part of this project, the postdoctoral researcher will investigate how multi-stakeholder collaborations in decentralized energy settings can be structured and governed, with an emphasis on contracts, cooperative norms, and trust-based mechanisms. Key objectives will include addressing how new forms of organizing can enhance fairness, efficiency, and scalability in energy solutions. 

Research Focus Areas

• Governance mechanisms that support stakeholder collaboration in decentralized energy
• Self-organization within energy networks and contract-based risk-sharing models
• Empirical evaluation of collaborative frameworks across energy communities
• Business and management innovations relevant to grid operators, governments, and technology providers
• The scalability and replication of findings to broader energy transition contexts

This role provides an opportunity to contribute to practical solutions for climate-neutral energy systems and will be aligned with the Academic Collaborative Center on Climate and Energy (ACC), enhancing both academic and societal impact. 

Qualification

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will:

1. Hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in Strategic Management, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field
2. Have a strong background in empirical research, ideally involving industry collaboration
3. Demonstrate expertise in collaborative governance, sourcing/contracting, or network management
4. Show strong qualitative research and data analysis skills
5. Be fluent in both Dutch and English
6. Exhibit proactive, creative, and independent research capabilities
7. Communicate effectively with academic and industry audiences
8. Be committed to impactful, interdisciplinary climate and energy research 

Benefits & Compensation

• Full-time gross salary: €4,537 – €6,209/month (UFO profile Researcher 3, scale 11)
• 8% vacation pay and 8.3% year-end bonus
• Over 8 weeks of paid vacation leave
• Hybrid working options, including a home-office allowance (€2/day)
• Monthly internet reimbursement (€25)
• Sustainable commuting support (bike, walk, public transit)
• Flexible benefits: extra leave, pension contributions, gym membership
• Relocation support and eligibility for the 30% tax ruling (for international hires)
• ABP pension plan
• Access to career training, leadership programs, and research funding
• Collaboration opportunities across interdisciplinary university networks
• Inclusive work culture and a green, accessible campus environment 

Application Process

Applicants are kindly asked to apply online only by July 30, 2025. Applications should be addressed to Prof. Wendy van der Valk and must include:

1. A cover letter outlining motivation and research interests
2. A complete academic CV
3. Two academic writing samples (published or unpublished)
4. Contact information for two referees
   For inquiries, contact:
   📧 w.vdrvalk@tilburguniversity.edu 

Selection Timeline

• Letter review: August 1, 2025 
• First-round interviews: Early August 
• Final interviews: Late August
• A Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG) may be requested during the hiring process.

The selected candidate is expected to begin on September 1, 2025.