Position Overview

The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) invites applications for a PhD scholarship to explore the critical intersection of sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship in deeptech. This position provides a unique opportunity to conduct impactful research while fostering sustainable business practices in Brussels and beyond.

This full-time position is based at the VUB’s Faculty of Social Sciences & Solvay Business School, within the Department of Business Technology and Operations. The successful candidate will actively contribute to the BUDA research group, FARI institute, and sustain.brussels, collaborating with academic, industry, and governmental stakeholders.

Eligibility Requirements

We are hiring motivated candidates with:

1. Academic Background:
   • A Master’s degree in fields such as Sustainability Science, Innovation Management, or Business Studies.
2. Skills and Experience:
   • A startup mentality with a proactive approach.
   • Experience conducting qualitative and/or quantitative research.
   • A passion for sustainability and hands-on experience in sustainable business practices or digital sustainability/ICT.
   • Strong organizational and communication skills to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
   • Proficiency in English; working knowledge of Dutch or French is highly desirable.
3. Personal Attributes:
   • Intrinsic motivation, self-organization, and commitment to high-quality research.
   • Willingness to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.
4. Additional Requirements:
   • Candidates must not have performed more than 12 months of work as an assistant paid from operating resources.

Key Responsibilities

1. Research and Innovation:
   • Conduct sustainability assessments for Brussels-based businesses.
   • Develop training modules for sustainable business practices and innovation.
   • Engage with companies, startups, policymakers, and researchers to foster collaboration.
   • Conduct high-quality academic research on sustainable business design, culminating in a doctoral thesis.
2. Operational Support:
   • Contribute to the daily activities and outreach initiatives of BUDA and sustain.brussels.
3. Community Building:
   • Help establish a forward-thinking, sustainable ecosystem in Brussels by collaborating with local and international stakeholders.

What We Offer

• Scholarship Details:
  • A PhD scholarship for 12 months, renewable up to 48 months based on positive evaluations.
  • Planned starting date: 01 March 2025.
• Work Environment:
  • An open, diverse, and collaborative workplace fostering innovation and creativity.
  • Access to the dynamic and sustainable research ecosystem of Brussels.
• Compensation and Benefits:
  • A grant aligned with government-regulated scales.
  • Extensive teleworking options with allowances (e.g., €50/month telework or €20/month internet allowance).
  • 35 days of annual leave, additional holidays between Christmas and New Year, and three extra leave days.
  • Cost-free hospitalization insurance.
  • Full reimbursement for public transport commutes or bicycle allowances.
  • Affordable campus meals, excellent sports facilities, and discounts on various services (e.g., amusement parks, fuel, and more).
  • Nursery facilities near the campus and discounts on holiday camps.
  • Continuous learning opportunities through the VUB’s learning platforms and training programs.

Application Process

Required Documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
2. Motivation Letter detailing your interest and qualifications.
3. Diploma (not required for VUB alumni).

Submission:
Applications must be submitted via the VUB job portal by 31 January 2025.