University of Twente (UT) is Offering a Fully Funded PhD Position – Futuring for Resilient Urban Spaces

Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC)
Application Deadline: 11 August 2025
Location: Enschede, the Netherlands

The University of Twente (UT) invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on futuring for resilient urban spaces. The successful candidate will join the Faculty of Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation (ITC), specifically contributing to the Spatial Dynamics research theme under the Dutch Sector Plan Beta II program.

UT is committed to promoting diversity in academia and actively encourages applications from women to support a more balanced representation within the faculty.

Project Overview

Urban environments face increasingly complex challenges, including climate uncertainty, population growth, and the demand for sustainable transformation. This research addresses the urgent need to develop methods that integrate scientific insight with imaginative and inclusive engagement strategies. The core research challenge involves creating futuring methodologies—approaches that combine spatial data, community input, and speculative design to reimagine urban living environments and their development pathways.

The PhD candidate will explore how transdisciplinary tools can encourage mutual learning between geo-information scientists and societal stakeholders, enabling communities to critically reflect on future urban scenarios grounded in their local realities.

Research Environment

The position is embedded within several collaborative environments, including:

• DISC (Design and Interactive Space for Co-Creation)
• UT DesignLab
• ITC-Centre for Disaster Resilience
• UT Climate Centre

Close collaboration with governmental and community actors will be essential. Case studies will be developed with project partners during the early phase of the research.

Candidates will be expected to contribute approximately 20% of their time to departmental responsibilities, which may include teaching or MSc student supervision. The PhD candidate will also receive training in research communication and produce visual and interactive content as part of their outreach and engagement strategy.

Candidate Profile

Applicants should demonstrate a strong academic foundation and a keen interest in working across disciplines. The ideal candidate will have:

• A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as design (e.g., human-centred design, interaction design), urban studies (e.g., urban geography, urbanism, spatial planning), architecture, geo-information science, or related disciplines.
• A demonstrated interest in combining design and spatial analysis with social science methods.
• Proficiency in one or more of the following: design methodology, GIS, spatial data analysis, qualitative or quantitative research.
• A collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience or knowledge related to urban resilience, planning support systems, or sustainability.
• Fluency in English (oral and written); willingness to learn Dutch is advantageous.
• A proactive and self-directed work ethic with a commitment to high-quality research and team collaboration.

Applicants who may not yet meet every requirement but show strong motivation and a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply. For more information and to apply please visit University of Twente official webpage.

Position Details

• Start Date: Preferred between 1 October and 31 December 2025
• Duration: Full-time, four-year appointment with a performance-based qualifier after 6–9 months
• Gross Monthly Salary: €2,901 (Year 1) rising to €3,707 (Year 4)
• Benefits Include:
  • 8% holiday allowance
  • 8.3% year-end bonus
  • 41 vacation days (based on full-time employment)
  • Pension plan and professional development support
  • Dynamic, international research community and a green, technology-driven campus

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit the following documents no later than 11 August 2025:

• A motivation letter (max 2 pages) outlining qualifications, interest in the position, and a preliminary idea for a project that aligns with the theme of futuring for resilient urban spaces.
• Curriculum Vitae, including academic background, grades, contact details of two references, and (if applicable) a list of publications.
• Optional: A design portfolio showcasing relevant work.

Authenticity and genuine motivation are valued over generic or AI-generated content. Candidates shortlisted for the first interview round (held online on 21 August 2025) may be invited for a second interview on 28 August 2025.

About the University of Twente

UT is a public research university that blends technical and social sciences in tackling the world’s pressing challenges. Through its High Tech Human Touch philosophy, UT fosters innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility across disciplines.

The ITC Faculty specializes in capacity building in geo-information science and earth observation. Its mission is to empower partners worldwide in confronting global issues such as urbanization, climate change, and disaster risk.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the awarding organization. For any inquiries, please contact the awarding organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.