Are you passionate about assisting rural communities in adapting to climate change while safeguarding biodiversity? Do you have an interest in transdisciplinary research for nature-based solutions and their potential to foster just and sustainable regions? Are you skilled in utilizing digital technologies to engage diverse stakeholders?

The Role

We are looking for a motivated and research-focused postdoctoral researcher to join our team. Your primary responsibility will be to develop, apply, and assess innovative co-creation approaches that integrate multi-species perspectives and leverage digital technologies (such as VR/XR) with rural communities to enhance climate resilience through nature-based solutions. You will be involved in the NURISH project funded by the European Union, which aims to nurture transformative capacities and innovation in nature-based solutions in rural areas. This project explores the intersection of co-creation, digital innovation, and nature-based solutions, examining how these processes can engage with nature's values and multi-species representation, fostering transformative thinking and engagement with nature among rural communities. Additionally, you will investigate how digital technologies can facilitate meaningful co-creation with rural communities, enabling the implementation and mainstreaming of nature-based solutions to contribute to more just and sustainable regions.

Responsibilities

• Conduct empirical and theoretical research to deepen understanding of co-creation processes.
• Generate actionable knowledge for inclusive governance of nature-based solutions.
• Engage in action research across various real-life case studies in Greece, Cyprus, Finland, and the UK.
• Supervise a small group of master's students annually on urban nature-based solutions.
• Prepare and deliver lectures on governance and planning of nature-based solutions for bachelor and master programs.

Requirements

• PhD in Urban Planning and Governance, Urban Ecology, Human Geography, Political Science, or related fields (to be awarded by October 1, 2026).
• Proven research skills, particularly in qualitative data collection and analysis.
• Experience publishing as a lead author in high-quality international peer-reviewed journals (minimum of three papers).
• Proficiency in conducting structured and semi-structured interviews, workshops, and transdisciplinary research activities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with strong organizational and time-management skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience in organizing expert focus groups and stakeholder workshops.
• Knowledge of European environmental policies.
• Experience in organizing international research seminars and events.
• Willingness to learn new methodologies and theories.

What We Offer

• A temporary position (0.8 FTE) for one year, with the possibility of extension until September 30, 2029, pending successful assessment.
• A gross monthly salary between €3,706 and €4,599 for full-time employment (salary scale 10.0 - 10.5).
• 8% holiday pay and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
• A pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment terms.

About Us

At Utrecht University, we strive for a better future for everyone, motivating our scientists to conduct leading research and inspire teaching. Our Faculty of Geosciences studies the Earth, focusing on sustainability and innovation. The Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning addresses sustainability challenges amid increasing urbanization, emphasizing governance and planning for sustainable transformations.

For more information about the NURISH project and its objectives, please visit the project website.

If you have questions, please contact our Recruitment Advisor, Sophie Ketting, via email.

To apply, please submit your CV, a motivation letter (maximum one page), and a writing sample via the 'apply now' button. We value diversity and inclusion and encourage applications from candidates with various backgrounds and experiences.