Postdoctoral researcher on Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration in Decentralized Energy SystemsPostdoctor

Job title:

Postdoctoral researcher on Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration in Decentralized Energy SystemsPostdoctor

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Job description

Offer DescriptionShaping the future of decentralized energy solutions as a postdoctoral researcherThe transition to a climate-neutral energy system requires fundamental shifts in how we reorganize our energy infrastructure. More decentralized energy solutions (e.g., in neighbourhoods) allow producing, storing and distributing energy more efficiently, alleviating grid congestion and promoting affordable and reliable energy. These solutions do require new forms of collaboration between the various stakeholders involved. For example: traditional bilateral relationships and contracts between governments, energy suppliers, grid operators and users no longer work here, as users will have much more influence on how they collectively produce and use energy. Hence, we need to rethink how to organize such multi-stakeholder collaborations, and what kind of governance mechanisms and contracts effectively support these collaborations in achieving a fair distribution of costs and benefits.We are looking for a talented and motivated postdoctoral researcher to explore how such new forms of collaborations could take shape and how they should be organized. Your research will focus on rethinking the relationships and interdependencies between the various stakeholders involved in these emerging energy solutions, and how different types of governance mechanisms and contracts can support this transition. Are you passionate about the energy transition, network governance and novel forms of collaboration? Do you want to contribute to cutting edge research that will help shape solutions for the energy system of the future? Then we invite you to apply!Your position
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will join the Joule4Joule project, which is an industry-led consortium which focuses on the energy system of the future. It encompasses a diverse set of stakeholders such as grid operators, governments, energy communities, technology providers and knowledge/research institutes. Together, they work to radically innovate how we produce, store and distribute energy by combining both electricity and heat networks, requiring us to rethink and redevelop existing energy solutions, and the new forms of collaboration through which they can be shaped.In this project, Tilburg University is involved in a work package related to collaboration and governance of innovative decentralized energy solutions. As a postdoctoral researcher you will be involved in exploring business and management-related questions such as:

• What forms of organizing are desirable for fostering collaboration in decentralized energy solutions?
• How can different types of governance mechanisms (e.g., contracts, trust, cooperative norms) be used to foster collaboration, monitor the process and results thereof, and stimulate alignment and risk sharing, between the multiple and diverse stakeholders involved?
• How can these insights be scaled to other and larger settings?

The focus will be on the self-organization of the stakeholder network by its members. Through empirical research you will play a key role in designing and developing new ways of collaborating in decentralized energy solutions. The candidate is open to shape their research in line with the project objectives using a variety of methodological approaches. Collaboration and alignment with the industry partners involved in Joule4Joule project will be an important element in shaping your research.This position is embedded within the Department of Information Systems and Operations Management at Tilburg University, a growing high-quality high-impact research group in Tilburg University’s School of Economics and Management. The group consists of faculty, lecturers, postdoctoral fellows, and PhD candidates, and covers a wide range of research topics and methods (see ). Recently, we have grown substantially in size and in research output, with in particular an outstanding group of junior and mid-career faculty. Our leading faculty publish in premier outlets such as those in the journal list. In addition, a subset of our PhD projects are sponsored by industry and science council funding, and address directly impactful societal challenges.Furthermore, the successful candidate will be part of the (ACC), where the Joule4Joule project itself is embedded. The ACC brings together various disciplines across the university as well as societal partners to contribute with theoretical knowledge and practical solutions to a socially just energy transition. Being part of such a large network of scholars and practitioners offers a unique opportunity to combine high-level cutting-edge academic research with tangible societal impact, helping to shape the governance of a sustainable energy future. Therefore, a large part of this position is close collaboration with both fellow researchers and diverse societal partners and external stakeholders across different work packages, bridging the gap between academia and practice.Where to apply WebsiteRequirementsSpecific RequirementsWe understand that no candidate will meet every single requirement, and we don’t want lists to discourage talented applicants. If you’re excited about this position but don’t tick every box, we still encourage you to apply! In your application, tell us not only about the qualifications you bring but also about the areas you’re eager to develop further.For this position, we are seeking a motivated and talented postdoctoral researcher who:

• Holds (or is close to completing) a PhD in strategic management, operations/ supply chain management, business or a related field.
• Has experience with conducting empirical research in close collaboration with industry partners.
• Has affinity or experience with working on topics related to the energy transition
• Has expertise in sourcing and contracting, collaborative governance and/or network management.
• Possesses strong qualitative research skills and data analytical abilities.
• Thrives in collaboration, seamlessly working with both academic peers and external partners.
• Communicates effectively, presenting ideas clearly and engaging with diverse audiences.
• Speaks Dutch and English.
• Is proactive, independent, and creative, with a vision for innovative research.
• Demonstrates leadership and self-awareness, critically reflecting on both the scientific and societal impact of their work.
• Wants to contribute to Tilburg University’s dynamic research community on climate and energy and help build an inspiring work environment.

Additional InformationBenefitsTilburg University offers an excellent working environment with a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including:

• A position of 0.8-1.0 FTE (32 – 40 hours per week) for 24 months,
• A gross monthly salary ranging from € 4,537 to €6,209 for full-time employment, based on the UFO profile Researcher 3 and the salary scale 11. Tilburg University uses a neutral remuneration system based on relevant work experience,
• Vacation pay of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3%,
• Over eight weeks of vacation leave,
• Hybrid working options, with the opportunity to work partly on campus and partly from home with a home office allowance of €2 per day,
• Reimbursement for sustainable commuting, including walking, cycling, and public transport,
• A monthly internet allowance of €25,
• Flexible benefits, allowing employees to exchange benefits for things such as additional leave, more pension, a bicycle or personal training at our Sports Center through the Options Model,
• A relocation allowance (subject to applicable conditions),
• Eligibility for the 30% tax ruling, providing a tax-free allowance for extraterritorial expenses for foreign employees.
• A pension with ABP, the largest Dutch pension fund.
• Training opportunities, including personal and career development, leadership, education, research and language courses,
• Opportunities for professional development and research funding,
• Access to Tilburg University’s extensive network of interdisciplinary experts,
• An inclusive work culture where diversity is embraced, everyone is welcome and given equal opportunities, and
• A vibrant, green campus, easily accessible by public transport.

For more information, see our and the .Selection processLetter selection is scheduled on date August 1; you will receive notification from us shortly thereafter. The first selection interviews will take place on early August and the second on late August. Due to information security risks, submission of a certificate of good conduct (VOG) is part of the selection procedure.You will ideally start working for Tilburg University on September 1.Additional commentsWould you like to know more before applying? Feel free to contact Wendy van der Valk at .We kindly invite you to apply before July 30; this can only be done online. Address your cover letter to Wendy van der Valk and attach your resume.Applications should include: * A cover letter detailing your motivation and research interests,

• A full academic CV,
• Two academic writing samples (published or unpublished),
• Contact details of two referees (including name, phone number and email address).

Website for additional job detailsWork Location(s)Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Tilburg University Country Netherlands City Tilburg Postal Code 5037 AB Street Warandelaan 2 GeofieldContact CityTilburg WebsiteStreetWarandelaan 2 Postal Code5037 ABSTATUS: EXPIREDShare this page

Expected salary

€4537 – 6209 per month

Location

Tilburg, Noord-Brabant

Job date

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 03:10:55 GMT

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