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Principal Investigator in Sustainable Transformation, Transdisciplinary Research, and Wellbeing

Job Information

This role is part of a collaborative initiative between the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and the Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) under the auspices of the SWIFT (Sustainable World Initiative & Fellowship for Transformation). The Chair will be situated within the VUB-HOST and ULB departments, working closely with Professors Cathy Macharis (VUB) and Wouter Achten (ULB).
  • Type of contract
  • Salary
  • Starting date
  • Application Deadline
  • Interviews
  • 5 year contract
  • In line with the official university’s scales that considers experience
  • April 2025 - Flexible
  • March 1st, 2025
  • March 15th, 2025 - April 15th, 2025 (preferably onsite)

Offer Description

The Chair will lead pioneering research that addresses the evolving dynamics of scientific practices within ecological, social, and institutional contexts. This position is integral to exploring the following key research questions:

  1. Reimagining Knowledge: How does the knowledge necessary for driving sustainable transformation differ from the knowledge that has contributed to the current systemic and climate crises? The Chair will explore and develop theoretical and practical approaches that examine the roles, power structures, and influence of various forms of scientific knowledge in sustainability transitions.
  2. Redefining Value: the academic environment is highly competitive and metrics driven, which do not capture all forms of knowledge creation and transfer, or societal or transformation impact, and which might put pressure on well-being. How could a wider range of academic work be evaluated? And, how can well-being be enhanced through new ways to value academic work, impact. And, how could these valuations change the underlying structures.
  3. Rethinking Universities: How can the role of public institutions such as universities reshape to contribute more frontally to socio-environmental dynamics and transformations. And, inversely, how can emerging socio-environmental transformations reshape the role of public institutions such as universities?
Key Responsibilities
  • Research Leadership: Spearhead research projects that critically examine and advance sustainable transformations, focusing on the intersection of ecological, social, and institutional dimensions.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Work collaboratively with other thematic chairs within the SWIFT initiative and beyond, promoting a multidisciplinary approach that bridges environmental, social, and institutional perspectives.
  • Education and Mentorship: Supervise doctoral students, guiding their research to ensure it aligns with and contributes to the objectives of the Chair.
  • Innovation and Impact: Drive innovative research that rethinks the role of scientific practices in sustainability transitions, while engaging with public institutions and stakeholders to implement meaningful and transformative changes.

Requirements

  • Educational Level
  • Experience
  • A PhD in a relevant field such as Sustainability Science, Environmental Studies, Social Sciences, or a related discipline is required
  • A proven track record in conducting and leading interdisciplinary research, particularly in the areas of sustainability and transdisciplinary methodologies

What we offer

  • A pleasant and friendly working environment within an institution with strong societal values.
  • A dynamic work environment on a green and easily accessible university campus.
  • Ongoing training and development opportunities.
  • Benefits: possibility of joininig hospitalization insurance, supplementary pension, contribution to travel expenses, etc.

Equal Opportunities Policy

ULB’s and VUB’s personnel managment policy is focused on diversity and equal opportunities. We recruit candiates based on their skills, regardless of their age, gender, sexual orientation, origin, nationality, beliefs, or disability. 

Where to apply?

Application Requirements

Candidates interested in applying for this position are expected to upload the following documents:

  1. Curriculum Vitae : A comprehensive overview of your academic and professional achievements.
  2. Motivation Letter (2 pages max): A statement detailing your interest in the Chair, how you plan to contribute to its goals, and your vision for the future of sustainable transformations and transdisciplinary research.  
  3. Two references. Provide the names and contact details of 2 academic scholars whom we could contact.
  4. The application file (template attached) covering:
  • Previous teaching (if any), research experience (1 page)
  • A 5-year research project within the scope of the Chair, including the synergies with the SWIFT initiative (3 pages).
  • A research vision discussing the key research areas you intend to focus on and how they align with the goals of the SWIFT initiative, as well as the plan to integrate and mentor PhD researchers (1 page).
  • A discussion on strategies for fostering collaboration withing SWIFT and with external partners (1 page).

Please upload the documents in the following format: SURNAME-NAME_NameOfTheDocument.pdf.

Ex.: SURNAME-Name_CV.pdf; SURNAME-Name_MotivationLetter.pdf; SURNAME-Name_ReferenceLetter1.pdf; SURNAME-Name_ReferenceLetter2.pdf; SURNAME-Name_Application.pdf

Upload here

Evaluation Process

Applicants will be evaluated based on their scientific expertise, the innovativeness of their project proposal, and their ability to contribute to and work within a multidisciplinary research environment. A clear and compelling vision for mentoring PhD students and integrating their research into the broader objectives of the Chair will be a key consideration.

We encourage applications from candidates who are passionate about sustainable transformations and eager to contribute to shaping the future of ecological, social, and institutional research.