PhD Researcher in Environmental Sciences and Demography
Explore how population change and demographic shifts reshape urban planning, resource demand, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Best for:Best for master's graduates in sustainability sciences, urban planning, or engineering with strong GIS and modeling skills.
Overview
Leiden University's Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) invites applications for a PhD researcher position focused on the intersection of demographic shifts and environmental sustainability. The project investigates how spatial population distribution, aging, and smaller households jointly impact resource demand, infrastructure utilization, and greenhouse gas emissions. The successful candidate will develop high-resolution demand models, integrate material flow and life-cycle assessments, and evaluate circular strategies for vacant infrastructure. Candidates are expected to collaborate across disciplines, engage with the Graduate School of Science, and contribute to regional development strategies.
What you'll do
- Develop high-resolution activity demand models for building energy and transport sectors using European demographic projections
- Integrate demand projections with material flow and life-cycle models to quantify future energy requirements, material intensity, and GHG emissions
- Evaluate adaptive reuse and circular strategies for vacant buildings and underutilized transport infrastructure in depopulating or aging regions
- Design integrated spatial planning scenarios combining built environment transformations with transport infrastructure investments
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in Sustainability Sciences, Urban Planning, Engineering, or related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; strong written and oral proficiency
Instruction: English
- Experience with GIS analysis and working with large datasets
- Proficiency in empirical analysis and programming
- Strong scientific writing and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-11
Submit your application through the online recruitment system via the provided application portal. Applications sent directly via email will not be considered. Ensure all required documents are uploaded and quote the vacancy number.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Names and contact details of at least two referees
Contact
Peter Berrill
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