PhD position Social dynamics of energy communities in the Dutch energy transition
This PhD position is about research into social dynamics of energy communities and their stakeholder ecosystem. Research involves case studies and participatory action research (PAR) in selected use cases. The PhD position also includes one day per week of work for the department, for example providing teaching support.
Social dynamics shape behaviours that can accelerate or hinder the Dutch energy transition. In this project the focus is on social dynamics within and surrounding energy communities (ECs). This project explores how different types of social dynamics support, interrupt, or derail collective action and collaborative governance of energy communities, adopting a system perspective. While key to the national energy transition energy communities are hindered from scaling due, at least in part, to problematic social and political dynamics that discourage national support and spark local opposition to the renewable energy projects energy communities are involved in. The resulting complex social dynamics like contestation, social resistance and conflict disincentivize ECs as do dynamics at the niche and national levels. Understanding transformative co-evolutionary (social and technical) energy system change necessitates a move beyond mono-disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches, which cannot fully access the experiences, perceptions and behaviors of energy community members with smart energy technology interventions and related social dynamics. This PhD research project adopts a qualitative exploratory research approach involving longitudinal case studies and participatory action research (PAR) in a set of use cases with energy community projects ranging from smart grid experimentation and energy sharing in rural regions in the Netherlands to developing an energy community in Amsterdam Southeast.
The position is part of the project “Social dYnamics in eNergy systems: Resilience, Governance, and policY“ (SYNERGY) under the NWA (National Science Agenda) call Social Dynamics in the Energy Transition, involving University of Twente, Delft University of Technology, Utrecht University, University of Tilburg, Eindhoven University of Technology, Avans University of Appliances and TNO. SYNERGY explores how social dynamics among end users—like citizens and SMEs—shape behaviors that can accelerate or hinder the Dutch energy transition. Recognizing that current systems resist change, the project adopts a transdisciplinary approach to study cooperation, resistance, and other dynamics in neighborhoods, energy hubs, and communities. By integrating simulations, participatory methods, and co-creation with stakeholders, SYNERGY produces actionable knowledge, tools, and process interventions. It emphasizes energy justice by addressing inequalities in participation and access, and informs effective, inclusive energy policymaking. Through its community of practice, SYNERGY supports practitioners and extends theoretical frameworks on social dynamics in energy transitions.
The PhD candidate will have a position within the Section of Governance and Technology for Sustainability (CSTM) at the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), University of Twente in Enschede, The Netherlands. Supervision of the PhD position is in collaboration with Delft University of Technology.
Information and application
Are you interested in this position? Please send your application via the 'Apply now' button below before December 22nd 2025, and include:
- A cover letter (maximum 2 pages A4), emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications, and motivations to apply for this specific position
- A Curriculum Vitae, including a list of all courses attended and grades obtained, and, if applicable, a list of publications and references
- A max. two-page writing sample on your views regarding research into social dynamics in the energy transition, more particularly applied to community energy (e.g., energy cooperatives, community solar, community wind or thermal energy community)
- Contact information of two scientific staff members (one of whom could be the supervisor of your thesis/final project) who we may contact for references
For more information regarding the topic of position, you are welcome to contact prof. dr. Thomas Hoppe (t.hoppe@utwente.nl).
About the department
The Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), is home to tech-savvy social scientists eager to make the world a better place who are quite as excited about the wonders of humanness as we are about the powers of technology – and by bringing people and tech together in innovative, responsible and value-creating ways, we help them both become better versions of themselves. At BMS we do this through academic education, fundamental science and societal problem-solving. From Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees and Professional Learning & Development programmes to cross-disciplinary research programmes in any of our five research themes: Emerging Technologies & Societal Transformations; Resilience; Smart Industry; Learning; and Health.
The Section of Governance and Technology for Sustainability (CSTM) specializes in governance, emphasizing sustainable development, resilience, environmental quality, social inclusiveness, and technological innovation – from both developed and developing country perspectives. The section's roots date back to 1988, then established to conduct research in environmental policy and cleaner production, expanding during the 1990s to a more general focus on governance, technology and global sustainable development.
About the organisation
At the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), we unite the worlds of people and technology to address today’s complex societal challenges. We are passionate about understanding human behaviour, fostering responsible innovation, and designing solutions that create societal value. Our educational programmes span disciplines such as Psychology, Business Administration, Public Administration, Communication Sciences, Philosophy, Educational Sciences, and Health Sciences. Through our bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Professional Learning & Development programmes, and interdisciplinary research themes – including Emerging Technologies & Societal Transformations, Resilience, Smart Industry, Learning, and Health – we empower students and researchers to make a positive societal impact.
At BMS, we combine critical thinking with practical action. From advancing sustainable mobility with innovations like the world’s most efficient hydrogen car to shaping policies that promote digital inclusion, our work contributes to a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable future. Whether it’s exploring how technology influences human behaviour or leveraging data and innovation to transform industries and communities, we ensure that technology serves people – and not the other way around.
As an employer, BMS offers a vibrant, inclusive, and entrepreneurial environment where you can thrive personally and professionally. Join us and become part of a forward-thinking community that equips you to shape the future – for yourself and society. With us, you will become part of a leading technical university with increasing, positive social impact.
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