Position Overview

Leiden University invites applications for a PhD position in Information Systems focusing on the interplay between business model design for innovative energy solutions and regulatory frameworks. This interdisciplinary research will explore how enterprise modeling techniques can assess and support business model viability within specific regulatory environments, enabling solutions such as peer-to-peer electricity trading platforms to thrive in the energy transition landscape.

This PhD position is part of a collaboration between Leiden University, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), funded by the EuroTech PhD program. The position provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the evolving energy sector while advancing your academic and professional career.

Research Focus

The research will develop tools and methods to evaluate how regulations influence business model design and early-stage viability. Potential outcomes include:

• A self-assessment tool for energy communities to align their goals with regional regulations.
• Instruments for policymakers to perform regulatory impact analyses.
• Modeling methods to help consultants design regulatory-compliant energy solutions.

Initial application areas will include energy communities and congestion management systems.

Eligibility Requirements

We are looking for a highly motivated candidate who meets the following qualifications:

1. Educational Background:
   • Master’s degree in Information Systems, Business Science, Innovation Science, Computer Science, Industrial Engineering, or a similar field.
2. Skills and Expertise:
   • Strong affinity for interdisciplinary research, particularly involving industry collaboration.
   • Experience or interest in conceptual modeling and enterprise modeling techniques.
   • Ability to implement ideas in software prototypes.
3. Communication and Collaboration:
   • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
   • Ability to work independently and as part of an international, collaborative research group.
4. Desirable Attributes:
   • Passion for understanding regulatory and business model complexities in the energy transition.
   • Experience with energy solutions or sustainability-focused projects is a plus.

Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate, you will:

• Develop tools, methods, and techniques for assessing business model and regulatory interplay.
• Conduct research on enterprise modeling to support energy transition solutions.
• Spend a minimum of 6 months at DTU as part of the EuroTech PhD program.
• Contribute to teaching activities (10% of employment time) within the department’s Bachelor and Master programs.
• Publish research findings in top-tier journals and present at international conferences.
• Collaborate with academic and industry partners to ensure the practical applicability of your research.

What We Offer

• Employment Terms:
  • A full-time position for four years, with an initial contract of 12 months and an extension upon a positive evaluation.
• Salary and Benefits:
  • Gross monthly salary starting at €2,901 in the first year, rising to €3,707 in the fourth year (scale P).
  • Holiday allowance (8%) and year-end bonus (8.3%).
  • Paid parental leave and pension scheme.
  • Allowances for commuting, remote work, and internet costs.
• Professional Development:
  • Access to high-quality training programs to support your growth as an autonomous scientific researcher.
  • Opportunities to collaborate with leading academic and industry experts in energy transition.
• Work-Life Balance:
  • Access to on-campus daycare and sports facilities.
  • A beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station.

Application Process

Required Documents:

1. Cover Letter (1-page maximum): Explain your interest in the position and why you are a good fit.
2. Curriculum Vitae: Include academic achievements and research experience.
3. Master’s Thesis or Equivalent Report: Attach a copy or link to your work.
4. Course List: Include grades for courses from your Bachelor’s and Master’s programs.
5. Proof of English Proficiency: Recent English test results or equivalent documentation.

Submission:
Applications must be submitted via the official application portal by 02 February 2025.