PhD Position: Socio-Economic Effects of Climate Tipping Points (AMOC) – Utrecht University

Location: Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, Netherlands
Faculty: Faculty of Geosciences – Department of Sustainable Development
Start Date: To be confirmed
Application Deadline: 30 August 2025
Hours per Week: 36–40
Duration: 4 years
Salary: €2,901–€3,707 gross per month (scale P, CAO NU)

Overview

Utrecht University is recruiting a motivated PhD candidate to explore the socio-economic implications of climate tipping points—specifically, the weakening or collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)—as part of the EMBRACER Project, a long-term, interdisciplinary research programme funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO).

The project sits at the cutting edge of climate science, integrating physical climate modelling with socio-economic and behavioural impact analysis. This PhD research will contribute to understanding how changes in critical Earth system processes affect human societies, economies, infrastructure, and ecosystems—particularly in Europe.

Research Focus

This PhD position centers on analysing the socio-economic consequences of a potential tipping point in the AMOC. As a vital component of the global ocean circulation system, AMOC influences European climate patterns, marine ecosystems, and economic sectors.

Key impacts of AMOC weakening may include:

• Colder, drier European winters
• Increased winter storm frequency
• Southward extension of Arctic sea ice affecting port access and supply chains
• Food security risks and agricultural disruption
• Decline in marine biomass impacting fisheries and coastal economies

Paradoxically, some research suggests potential localized economic benefits due to regional cooling partially offsetting global warming effects. These contradictions highlight the urgency of further exploration using robust modelling frameworks.

The selected PhD candidate will examine these socio-economic uncertainties using a variety of modelling approaches, including:

• Integrated Assessment Models (IAMs), such as the IMAGE model
• Cost-benefit analyses to assess economically optimal response strategies
• Agent-based models to simulate behavioural responses to tipping points

Candidate Profile

Utrecht University is seeking an inspiring, self-motivated researcher with a passion for climate science and socio-environmental modelling. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

Academic Qualifications

• MSc degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Environmental Sciences, Computational Science, or a related discipline

Technical Competencies

• Strong programming and numerical modelling skills
• Experience in statistical analysis of simulation and/or observational data
• Basic understanding of environmental processes and Earth system dynamics

Soft Skills

• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills
• Capacity to work both independently and within an interdisciplinary team

What Utrecht University Offers

This PhD position offers:

• The opportunity to contribute to a high-impact international research programme on climate tipping points
• Mentorship and collaboration with leading climate and systems modelling experts
• A 4-year fully funded position within a highly regarded institution
• Gross monthly salary between €2,901 and €3,707 (CAO NU scale P)
• Additional benefits including:
  • 8% holiday pay
  • 8.3% year-end bonus
  • Pension scheme
  • Partially paid parental leave
  • Support for professional development
  • Access to university sports and cultural activities

Institutional Context

This position is hosted at the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, part of Utrecht University’s Faculty of Geosciences. The Copernicus Institute conducts leading sustainability research that bridges scientific insight and societal application. The Environmental Sciences group, where this role is based, focuses on the interaction between terrestrial ecosystems and global environmental change.

The project is part of EMBRACER, a 10-year interdisciplinary programme addressing critical uncertainties in climate feedbacks and Earth system tipping points. EMBRACER brings together global experts to study the interconnected systems between land, ocean, atmosphere, and ice.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A motivation letter
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Names and contact details of at least two academic referees

Applications should be submitted no later than 30 August 2025 via Utrecht University’s online job portal (accessible via the “Apply now” button on the official vacancy page).

Utrecht University is committed to building an inclusive and diverse academic community. Applicants from underrepresented backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply.

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