PhD Position on Green Steel Industry: The Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development at Utrecht University is inviting applications for a PhD candidate to engage in pioneering research aimed at achieving CO2-neutral steel production in the Netherlands by 2050. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable industrial practices while working with a network of esteemed institutions.
PhD Position on the Transition to a Green Steel Industry
Designation:
PhD Candidate
Research Area:
Transition to a Green Steel Industry, Sustainable Development, Material Flow Analysis, Circular Economy
Location:
Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Master’s degree in energy, materials, sustainability, industrial ecology, or a related field.
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Experience in (dynamic) Material Flow Analysis or modeling (required).
- Knowledge of energy and material systems, and circular economy is an advantage.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in Dutch is preferable.
- Motivated to work in an interdisciplinary and collaborative research environment.
Job Description:
The selected candidate will be responsible for:
- Mapping stakeholders in the Dutch, European, and international steel markets.
- Conducting dynamic Material Flow Analysis (MFA) modeling for steel demand.
- Evaluating various scenarios for future steel production and raw materials demand.
- Identifying and addressing bottlenecks in raw material supply and technology deployment.
- Collaborating with national stakeholders, including policymakers and businesses.
- Publishing high-quality academic papers and presenting research findings at conferences.
- Contributing to the broader research program on sustainability transitions and circular economy.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their curriculum vitae along with a letter of motivation through the “apply now” button on the Utrecht University website.
Last Date for Apply:
25 August 2025
This position is a full-time role for one year, with the potential for extension up to a total of four years contingent upon a successful assessment. It comes with a gross monthly salary ranging from €2,901 to €3,707, as per the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
