Analog/RF/mmWave Characterization Specialist

Job Description
Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is an internationally oriented research university specializing in engineering, science, and technological innovation. TUE/e is known for its strong scientific impact and its close cooperation with industry. Research and education are organized around major societal challenges, including energy, health, and smart mobility.

The Department of Electrical Engineering is one of the leading faculties in the Netherlands in terms of high-impact research and industrial collaboration. The department hosts approximately 1200 Bachelor and Master students and over 300 PhD candidates.

This vacancy is embedded within the Integrated Circuits (IC) group, which focuses on the design of analog, RF, and mixed-signal integrated circuits. The group is part of the Center for Wireless Technology (CWTe), a multidisciplinary research environment supporting research in wireless communication, sensing, and high-frequency electronics.

We are looking for an analog/RF/mmWave Characterization Specialist (0.8–1.0 FTE) to conduct and support measurements, develop measurements techniques, maintain and further develop advanced measurement facilities for analog/RF/mm-wave characterization operating in the frequency range 0–500 GHz.

The successful candidate will contribute to experimental research by ensuring the availability, reliability, and advancement of high-end measurement infrastructure, bridging the gap between IC design and system-level validation.

Tasks and Responsibilities
As an analog/RF/mmWave Characterization Specialist, you will be responsible for supporting and advancing high-frequency measurement activities within the group.

Your responsibilities include:

• Design and implement measurement setups for characterization of RF and mm-wave transceiver front-ends, as well as frequency generation and distribution blocks (e.g., PLLs, multipliers, dividers), including on-wafer probing and measurements using connectors and waveguide interfaces.
• Perform advanced characterization of integrated circuits and systems, including S-parameter measurements, noise figure analysis, linearity testing, and modulation performance evaluation (EVM, BER).
• Develop and validate system demonstrators, such as beamforming and MIMO architectures, and conduct wireless link and radar measurements to assess system-level performance and translate circuit innovations into practical applications.
• Contribute to the development of novel measurement methodologies for highly integrated mmWave and sub-THz systems, including phased arrays and beamforming architectures.
• Operate, maintain, and optimize state-of-the-art measurement equipment, including vector network analyzers (VNA), signal generators, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and probe stations.
• Ensure proper calibration, traceability, and reliability of measurement setups in accordance with best practices and standards.
• Support procurement, installation, and commissioning of new laboratory equipment, ensuring smooth integration into existing test environments.
• Establish and maintain relationships with equipment vendors to stay up to date on the latest developments in instrumentation, methods, and software.
• Advise and assist researchers and students in designing and executing measurement experiments.
• Document measurement procedures, experimental setups, and results in a clear and structured manner.
• Support the lab manager in the daily operation and long-term development of laboratory facilities (approximately 0.1 FTE contribution).
• Manage IC integration activities, including IC bonding/flip-chip assembly, PCB design, manufacturing, and system-level assembly.

Job Requirements
The candidate is expected to combine strong technical expertise with a hands-on approach and an interest in experimental research.

You meet the following requirements:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Telecommunications, or a closely related discipline;
• Demonstrated knowledge of RF and microwave systems, including transmitter and receiver front-ends;
• Experience with high-frequency measurement techniques, including S-parameter measurements and calibration methods (e.g., SOLT, TRL);
• Understanding of key performance metrics such as noise figure, gain, linearity, and modulation performance; Experience with measurement automation and control software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW);
• Strong communication skills, enabling you to interact effectively with researchers and students.
• A proactive, structured, and solution-oriented approach to your work, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Fluent proficiency in English (written and spoken). Knowledge of Dutch is considered an advantage.

The following qualifications are also considered an advantage:

• Hands-on experience with RF measurement equipment such as: Vector Network Analyzers (VNA), Spectrum analyzers and signal generators, High-frequency probe stations or equivalent instrumentation;
• Experience with analog, RF, mmWave systems (0–500 GHz);
• Experience with antenna characterization and over-the-air (OTA) measurements; Affinity with embedded systems or data acquisition platforms.

Conditions of Employment
An exciting position within an international yet personal university. You are right in the middle of the students, on a green campus within walking distance of the central station. Besides beautiful architecture, you will find varied workplaces and excellent sports facilities.

We also offer you:

• A one-year contract with the intention of transitioning to a permanent position following a successful first year.
• Salary in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale 9 ranging from €3,873 to €5,264 gross base salary per month (full-time), depending on your knowledge and experience.
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• A favorable arrangement for more holidays or a sabbatical.
• A selection model for additional fringe benefits.
• Working hours in consultation for an optimal work-life balance.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• Scope for your talent with advancement prospects and excellent development opportunities such as mentoring, workshops and coaching.
• Partially paid parental leave and reimbursement for commuting expenses, working from home and the internet.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us
We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The mission of the Department of Electrical Engineering is to acquire, share and transfer knowledge and understanding in the whole field of Electrical Engineering through education, research and valorization. We work towards a ‘Smart Sustainable Society’, a ‘Connected World’, and a healthy humanity (‘Care & Cure’). Activities share an application-oriented character, a high degree of complexity and a large synergy between multiple facets of the field.

Research is carried out into the applications of electromagnetic phenomena in all forms of energy conversion, telecommunication and electrical signal processing. Existing and new electrical components and systems are analyzed, designed and built. The Electrical Engineering department takes its inspiration from contacts with high-tech industry in the direct surrounding region and beyond.

The department is innovative and has international ambitions and partnerships. The result is a challenging and inspiring setting in which socially relevant issues are addressed.

Group
You will join the Integrated Circuits (IC) group, a leading research hub advancing the frontiers of semiconductor design. The group has a strong track record in analog, RF/mmWave, and mixed-signal integrated circuits and analog computing. Through close collaboration with other Electrical Engineering research groups and active engagement with the regional Brainport ecosystem and the broader European high-tech landscape, the IC group operates at the intersection of circuits, systems, and applications. It plays a key role in driving innovation in wireless and optical communications, heterogeneous integration, as well as medical and environmental sensing and novel computing paradigms, translating fundamental research into impactful technologies for next-generation semiconductor systems. Particularly, you will be part of the RF Sensing and Communication lab working mainly on Intermediate Frequency (IF) circuits improving the link between analog/RF/mm-wave front-ends and digital domains. Active collaboration across the IC group’s labs is an integral part of our working culture, and you will be expected to both contribute to and initiate such cross-disciplinary efforts.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to have more information about the position, please contact dr. Vojkan Vidojkovic, lead of RF Sensing and Communication Lab, via v.vidojkovic@tue.nl, Rainier van Dommele, a.r.v.dommele@tue.nl and prof. dr. Marrion Matters, IC group chair via m.matters@tue.nl.

Visit our website for more information about the application process. You can also contact Kevin Caris, HR Advisor, k.t.caris@tue.nl.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
If you are interested, please use the ‘apply’ button to send us your CV and letter of application with your motivation and a description of your qualifications. Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

Screening of candidates begins as soon as applications are received and continues until the position is filled. Where applicable, internal candidates will be given priority over external candidates where they are equally suitable.

We look forward to receiving your application!

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Unfortunately, due to the current closure of the Dutch embassy in Tehran, we are unable to consider applications from candidates residing in Iran at this time, as the required immigration procedures cannot be completed. For further information, please visit our FAQ page.
• Important for non-EU applicants: Please be aware that for this position, specific residence permit requirements apply. If you are a non-EU national, you may not be eligible to legally work in this role under current Dutch immigration regulations. We strongly advise you to contact our Staff Immigration Team (staffimmigration@tue.nl) before applying to check your eligibility and to receive further guidance.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.

Analog/RF/mmWave Characterization Specialist

Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is an internationally oriented research university specializing in engineering, science, and technological innovation. TUE/e is known for its strong scientific impact and its close cooperation with industry. Research and education are organized around major societal challenges, including energy, health, and smart mobility.

The Department of Electrical Engineering is one of the leading faculties in the Netherlands in terms of high-impact research and industrial collaboration. The department hosts approximately 1200 Bachelor and Master students and over 300 PhD candidates.

This vacancy is embedded within the Integrated Circuits (IC) group, which focuses on the design of analog, RF, and mixed-signal integrated circuits. The group is part of the Center for Wireless Technology (CWTe), a multidisciplinary research environment supporting research in wireless communication, sensing, and high-frequency electronics.

We are looking for an analog/RF/mmWave Characterization Specialist (0.8–1.0 FTE) to conduct and support measurements, develop measurements techniques, maintain and further develop advanced measurement facilities for analog/RF/mm-wave characterization operating in the frequency range 0–500 GHz.

The successful candidate will contribute to experimental research by ensuring the availability, reliability, and advancement of high-end measurement infrastructure, bridging the gap between IC design and system-level validation.

Tasks and Responsibilities
As an analog/RF/mmWave Characterization Specialist, you will be responsible for supporting and advancing high-frequency measurement activities within the group.

Your responsibilities include:

• Design and implement measurement setups for characterization of RF and mm-wave transceiver front-ends, as well as frequency generation and distribution blocks (e.g., PLLs, multipliers, dividers), including on-wafer probing and measurements using connectors and waveguide interfaces.
• Perform advanced characterization of integrated circuits and systems, including S-parameter measurements, noise figure analysis, linearity testing, and modulation performance evaluation (EVM, BER).
• Develop and validate system demonstrators, such as beamforming and MIMO architectures, and conduct wireless link and radar measurements to assess system-level performance and translate circuit innovations into practical applications.
• Contribute to the development of novel measurement methodologies for highly integrated mmWave and sub-THz systems, including phased arrays and beamforming architectures.
• Operate, maintain, and optimize state-of-the-art measurement equipment, including vector network analyzers (VNA), signal generators, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and probe stations.
• Ensure proper calibration, traceability, and reliability of measurement setups in accordance with best practices and standards.
• Support procurement, installation, and commissioning of new laboratory equipment, ensuring smooth integration into existing test environments.
• Establish and maintain relationships with equipment vendors to stay up to date on the latest developments in instrumentation, methods, and software.
• Advise and assist researchers and students in designing and executing measurement experiments.
• Document measurement procedures, experimental setups, and results in a clear and structured manner.
• Support the lab manager in the daily operation and long-term development of laboratory facilities (approximately 0.1 FTE contribution).
• Manage IC integration activities, including IC bonding/flip-chip assembly, PCB design, manufacturing, and system-level assembly.

Junior Academic Advisor Mathematics & Computer Science

Als junior Academic Advisor maak je deel uit van het team Education and Student Affairs (ESA) van de faculteit Mathematics & Computer Science. Het ESA-team ondersteunt alle bachelor-, pre-master- en masteropleidingen van de faculteit en zorgt voor een goed georganiseerd onderwijsprogramma, studieplanning, kwaliteitszorg en studiebegeleiding.

Vanaf januari 2027 zoeken wij een nieuwe collega voor 3 dagen (0,6 fte), waarvan minimaal twee dagen op de TU/e-campus.

Het dagelijkse werk van een Academic Advisor bestaat uit het ondersteunen van studenten in voornamelijk het Engels of Nederlands, zowel in persoonlijke gesprekken als via e-mail. Je bent het eerste aanspreekpunt voor studenten en houdt je bezig met uiteenlopende onderwerpen waar studenten vragen over hebben: van het samenstellen van hun studieprogramma en de interpretatie van reglementen tot advies over persoonlijke omstandigheden of het combineren van studie met een (topsport)carrière. Soms verwijs je hen door naar andere TU/e-diensten of teams, zoals de studentendecanen of studentenpsychologen, of naar een externe Nederlandse organisatie of dienst.

Daarnaast werk je samen met collega’s om studenten zo goed mogelijk te kunnen helpen. Bijvoorbeeld door met de examencommissie te overleggen over een verzoek vanwege bijzondere omstandigheden, door een docent te e-mailen om de regels en voorschriften van haar vak te verduidelijken of door met collega’s een lastige casus te bespreken en samen op zoek te gaan naar oplossingen. Onze faculteit staat niet stil, omdat het materiaal dat we onderwijzen altijd in ontwikkeling is. Daarom is het belangrijk dat je op de hoogte blijft van curriculumwijzigingen en studenten helpt deze te begrijpen.

Deze functie vraagt om uitstekende communicatievaardigheden, nauwkeurigheid, analytisch vermogen en empathie. Je kunt regelgeving en procedures helder uitleggen en weet daarbij oog te houden voor de persoonlijke situatie van de student. Als junior Academic Advisor krijg je de kans je verder te ontwikkelen binnen studiebegeleiding en onderwijsorganisatie. Je leert de opleidingen, regelgeving en processen kennen en werkt samen met ervaren collega’s om studenten praktisch en persoonlijk te ondersteunen.

Wij zoeken een leergierige en betrokken collega die graag met studenten werkt, zorgvuldig te werk gaat en complexe vragen helder kan uitzoeken en toelichten. Met jouw luisterend vermogen en nieuwsgierige houding draag je bij aan een positieve studie-ervaring voor onze studenten.

Junior Academic Advisor Mathematics & Computer Science

Introductie
Word jij enthousiast van een functie waarin je dagelijks contact hebt met studenten, waarin je met veel zelfstandigheid in een fijn team bezig bent met het begeleiden van studenten gedurende hun studietijd? Ben je analytisch, gestructureerd en empathisch en bezit je uitstekende schriftelijke en mondelinge communicatievaardigheden in zowel Nederlands (B1+) als Engels (C1+)? Dan ben jij misschien wel de Academic Advisor die we zoeken bij Mathematics & Computer Science.

Functieomschrijving
Als junior Academic Advisor maak je deel uit van het team Education and Student Affairs (ESA) van de faculteit Mathematics & Computer Science. Het ESA-team ondersteunt alle bachelor-, pre-master- en masteropleidingen van de faculteit en zorgt voor een goed georganiseerd onderwijsprogramma, studieplanning, kwaliteitszorg en studiebegeleiding.

Vanaf januari 2027 zoeken wij een nieuwe collega voor 3 dagen (0,6 fte), waarvan minimaal twee dagen op de TU/e-campus.

Het dagelijkse werk van een Academic Advisor bestaat uit het ondersteunen van studenten in voornamelijk het Engels of Nederlands, zowel in persoonlijke gesprekken als via e-mail. Je bent het eerste aanspreekpunt voor studenten en houdt je bezig met uiteenlopende onderwerpen waar studenten vragen over hebben: van het samenstellen van hun studieprogramma en de interpretatie van reglementen tot advies over persoonlijke omstandigheden of het combineren van studie met een (topsport)carrière. Soms verwijs je hen door naar andere TU/e-diensten of teams, zoals de studentendecanen of studentenpsychologen, of naar een externe Nederlandse organisatie of dienst.

Daarnaast werk je samen met collega’s om studenten zo goed mogelijk te kunnen helpen. Bijvoorbeeld door met de examencommissie te overleggen over een verzoek vanwege bijzondere omstandigheden, door een docent te e-mailen om de regels en voorschriften van haar vak te verduidelijken of door met collega’s een lastige casus te bespreken en samen op zoek te gaan naar oplossingen. Onze faculteit staat niet stil, omdat het materiaal dat we onderwijzen altijd in ontwikkeling is. Daarom is het belangrijk dat je op de hoogte blijft van curriculumwijzigingen en studenten helpt deze te begrijpen.

Deze functie vraagt om uitstekende communicatievaardigheden, nauwkeurigheid, analytisch vermogen en empathie. Je kunt regelgeving en procedures helder uitleggen en weet daarbij oog te houden voor de persoonlijke situatie van de student. Als junior Academic Advisor krijg je de kans je verder te ontwikkelen binnen studiebegeleiding en onderwijsorganisatie. Je leert de opleidingen, regelgeving en processen kennen en werkt samen met ervaren collega’s om studenten praktisch en persoonlijk te ondersteunen.

Wij zoeken een leergierige en betrokken collega die graag met studenten werkt, zorgvuldig te werk gaat en complexe vragen helder kan uitzoeken en toelichten. Met jouw luisterend vermogen en nieuwsgierige houding draag je bij aan een positieve studie-ervaring voor onze studenten.

Functie-eisen

• Goede communicatieve vaardigheden, zowel mondeling als schriftelijk.
• Goede beheersing van het Nederlands (B1+) en Engels (C1+).
• Een gestructureerde, analytische en methodische werkwijze.
• Ervaring met het werken met mensen uit diverse achtergronden; professionele ervaring met jongeren tussen 17 en 23 jaar is een pré.
• Interesse in of basiskennis van het Nederlandse hogeronderwijssysteem; kennis hiervan is een pluspunt.
• Organisatiesensitiviteit en een probleemoplossend vermogen.
• Een collegiale instelling en het vermogen om effectief samen te werken.
• Maximaal 2 jaar werkervaring

Ervaring in een adviserende of begeleidende functie is een pre. Wij verwelkomen kandidaten met diverse achtergronden en nationaliteiten.

Twijfel je of je voldoende aan de eisen voldoet, maar word je wel enthousiast van deze baan? Dan nodigen we je toch uit om te reageren – we kijken graag naar je profiel.

Arbeidsvoorwaarden
Een boeiende positie binnen een internationale en tegelijkertijd persoonlijke universiteit. Je zit midden tussen de studenten, op een groene campus op loopafstand van het centraal station. Daarnaast bieden we jou:

• Een bruto maandsalaris van minimaal € 3.873,- tot maximaal € 5.264,- bij een fulltime dienstverband, afhankelijk van jouw kennis en ervaring (schaal 9 cao Nederlandse Universiteiten).
• Naast je basissalaris ontvang je een vakantietoeslag van 8% en een eindejaarsuitkering van 8,3%, beide berekend over je jaarlijkse bruto basissalaris.
• Ruime verlofmogelijkheden: standaard 29 vakantiedagen per jaar (op basis van een 38-urige werkweek). Dit aantal kun je verhogen naar 41 dagen door wekelijks twee uur extra te werken (flexibele werktijden). Werk je parttime, dan wordt het aantal verlofdagen naar rato berekend.
• Als medewerker van de TU/e neem je deel aan de pensioenregeling van ABP. Deze regeling voorziet in een ouderdoms-, een nabestaanden- en een arbeidsongeschiktheidspensioen. De TU/e betaalt 70% van de pensioenpremie; medewerkers dragen de overige 30% bij.
• Een gunstige regeling voor extra verlofdagen of een sabbatical.
• Een keuzemodel voor extra secundaire arbeidsvoorwaarden.
• Werktijden in overleg voor een optimale werk-privé balans.
• Toegang tot het moderne sportcentrum op de TU/e‑campus tegen een uitzonderlijk voordelig tarief.
• We ondersteunen je welzijn met gratis 24/7 toegang tot OpenUp, waarmee jij en je gezin toegang hebben tot mentale ondersteuning, deskundig advies en online trainingen.
• Ruimte voor jouw talent met doorgroeikansen en uitstekende ontwikkelmogelijkheden, zoals mentoring, workshops en coaching.
• Deels betaald ouderschapsverlof en een vergoeding voor reiskosten woon-werkverkeer, thuiswerken en internet.

Op onze website ontdek je nog meer informatie over onze arbeidsvoorwaarden. Bouw verder aan je carrière bij de TU/e!

Over ons
Wij zijn een toonaangevende internationale universiteit waar wetenschappelijke nieuwsgierigheid samenkomt met een pragmatische, hands‑on mentaliteit. We werken op een open en samenwerkingsgerichte manier met hightechindustrieën om complexe maatschappelijke uitdagingen aan te pakken. Onze verantwoordelijke en respectvolle benadering zorgt voor impact — vandaag én in de toekomst. TU/e is de thuisbasis van meer dan 13.000 studenten en ruim 7.000 medewerkers, samen een diverse en bruisende academische gemeenschap.

Onze universiteit bevindt zich in Brainport Eindhoven — een wereldwijd toonaangevende technologieregio met meer dan 7.000 hightechbedrijven en sterke R&D‑activiteiten. Brainport staat bekend om doorbraken op het gebied van AI, fotonica, halfgeleiders en geavanceerde maakindustrie. Het is een regio waar technologie in dienst staat van mensen en de samenleving. Meer informatie over de Brainport‑regio vind je hier.

Als een van de grootste en meest dynamische academische communities van Nederland brengt de afdeling Mathematics and Computer Science (M&CS) meer dan 140 wetenschappelijke medewerkers, meer dan 250 promovendi en EngD‑kandidaten en meer dan 3000 studenten samen. We werken nauw samen met toonaangevende industriële partners in de Brainport Eindhoven‑regio en met universiteiten over de hele wereld—wat een uniek vruchtbare omgeving creëert voor zowel fundamentele doorbraken als toegepaste innovaties.

Informatie
Herken jij jezelf in dit profiel en wil je meer informatie over de functie? Neem dan contact op met de vacaturehouder: Jet Verbeeten, j.verbeeten@tue.nl.

Bezoek onze website voor meer informatie over het sollicitatieproces. Je kunt hierover ook contact opnemen met HRServices.mcs@tue.nl.

Nieuwsgierig geworden? Op www.tue.nl/jobs vind je meer over werken bij de TU/e.

Sollicitatie
Ben je geïnteresseerd? Via de solliciteerknop ontvangen we graag je CV en brief met motivatie en omschrijving van je kwalificaties. Zorg ervoor dat je alle gevraagde documenten toevoegt. Wij geven voorrang aan complete sollicitaties.

De gesprekken vinden plaats op woensdag 14 oktober op de campus van de TU/e.

De screening van kandidaten begint zodra de sollicitaties zijn ontvangen en gaat door totdat de vacature is ingevuld. Indien van toepassing, krijgen interne kandidaten bij gelijke geschiktheid voorrang op externe kandidaten.

We kijken uit naar je sollicitatie!

Let op

• Je kunt online solliciteren. Sollicitaties die per e-mail en/of post worden verstuurd, worden niet in behandeling genomen.
• Een voorafgaande screening (bijvoorbeeld een Verklaring omtrent Gedrag of kennisveiligheidscheck) kan onderdeel zijn van de selectieprocedure. Voor meer informatie over de kennisveiligheidscheck, raadpleeg de Nationale Richtlijnen Kennisveiligheid.
• Wij verzoeken je geen contact met ons op te nemen voor ongevraagde diensten.

PhD in Socio-Economic Dynamics and System Dynamics for Nature-Inclusive Agrifood Transitions

Introduction
Are you motivated to contribute to the transition toward nature-inclusive agriculture and horticulture? Do you want to work at the interface of innovation science, system dynamics, value chains, biodiversity restoration, and real-world decision-making by farmers and agrifood stakeholders? Join the NWO-KIC project RISE – Resilient Integrated Systems for Ecosystem restoration as a PhD candidate and co-develop a system dynamics model for agrifood transitions in an interdisciplinary team of four PhD candidates, with farmers and societal stakeholders.

Job Description
Biodiversity restoration in agriculture and horticulture is urgently needed, but difficult to realize in practice. Farmers operate in complex systems: they are embedded in value chains, regional communities, regulatory environments, ecological landscapes, and business models that often prioritize short-term productivity and profitability. RISE addresses this challenge by developing systems-based tools and implementation pathways that help stakeholders make nature-inclusive decisions that are ecologically meaningful, economically viable, and socially supported.

RISE is an interdisciplinary project involving Eindhoven University of Technology, Wageningen University & Research, Leiden University, and Inholland University of Applied Sciences, together with a broad network of societal partners from agriculture, horticulture, regional development, water management, policy, and civil society. The project works in two regional case areas: Reusel-Zuid, focused on open-field agriculture, and Oostland Zuid-Holland, focused on greenhouse horticulture. A third region on tree-nursing will be used for validation and replication.

This PhD position is based at Eindhoven University of Technology, in the Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences, and is embedded in the Innovation, Technology Entrepreneurship & Marketing group. You will be part of a cohort of four PhD candidates who work closely together across universities and disciplines. All PhD candidates will contribute to the shared RISE work packages and will receive cross-university supervision to ensure deep integration between innovation science, system dynamics, spatial modelling, biodiversity monitoring, and ecological indicator development.

The specific focus of this PhD project is on the socio-economic dynamics of nature-inclusive agrifood transitions, with particular attention to value chains, business viability, stakeholder coordination, system dynamics, lock-ins, and rebound effects. You will study, using system dynamics modelling, by means of participative modelling and in workshop settings, how economic incentives, value-chain relations, business models, risk perceptions, and stakeholder interactions shape the feasibility of biodiversity-enhancing practices.

Your work will include:

• Mapping the economic system around farms in the regional case studies, including value chains, upstream and downstream actors, supporting actors such as financial institutions and policymakers, and the distribution of costs, benefits, risks, and responsibilities.
• Conducting interviews and fieldwork with farmers, growers, value-chain actors, regional stakeholders, and policy actors.
• Developing Causal Loop Diagrams that integrate economic, social, spatial, and ecological insights from the broader RISE research.
• Take the lead in the development of a system dynamics simulation model of nature-inclusive regional transitions.
• Designing and facilitating stakeholder workshops to validate system models, explore transition pathways, and test scenarios.
• Analyzing the business viability of nature-inclusive strategies, including incentives, barriers, lock-ins, rebound effects, and opportunities for value-chain coordination.
• Contributing to collaborative scenario development and implementation roadmaps for nature-inclusive agrifood systems.
• Supporting advisory-board meetings, public dialogue, dissemination activities, and validation of the RISE approach in a third case region.
• Publishing—sometimes also in collaboration with the other RISE PhDs—in high-quality academic papers on topics such as collaborative innovation for biodiversity restoration, system dynamics models of regional transitions, stakeholder alignment through systems modelling, and business viability of nature-inclusive transition pathways.

This position is ideal for a candidate who is comfortable working interdisciplinary, at the boundary between theory and practice: developing rigorous academic insights while engaging closely with farmers, regional stakeholders, businesses, policymakers, and researchers from other disciplines.

The PhD candidate will be embedded in a research group with ample expertise in this type of boundary-spanning research. The Innovation, Technology Entrepreneurship & Marketing group (ITEM) at TU/e has a strong track record in system dynamics, innovation systems, stakeholder engagement, and agri-food transitions. The candidate will therefore join an environment that combines methodological expertise in systems modelling with substantive knowledge of sustainability transitions, business ecosystems, and collaborative innovation in practice.

Job Requirements
We are looking for a motivated, curious, and analytically strong candidate who is eager to contribute to both scientific research and practical impact.

You have:

• A master’s degree in Innovation Management, Organization Studies, Sustainability Transitions, System Dynamics, or a related field.
• A strong interest in sustainability transitions, biodiversity restoration, nature-inclusive agriculture, and/or agrifood innovation.
• Experience with systems thinking and system dynamics; prior experience with causal loop diagrams, simulation modelling, or participatory modelling is an advantage.
• Demonstrated ability or strong interest in qualitative and/or mixed-method research, including interviews, case studies, fieldwork, workshops, and stakeholder engagement.
• Interest in business models, value chains, ecosystems, and the economic feasibility of sustainability transitions.
• The ability to work in an interdisciplinary research team and to connect insights from innovation science, ecology, spatial planning, and practice.
• Ability and willingness to engage directly with stakeholders (e.g. farmers, industry partners, policymakers) and translate complex theoretical concepts into actionable insights and tools.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to interact with academic and non-academic stakeholders.
• Excellent written and spoken English.
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork in Dutch agricultural and horticultural regions.
• Speaking Dutch is a strong advantage, because the project involves interviews and workshops with Dutch farmers, growers, and regional stakeholders.
• Proactive, independent, and organized, with the ability to manage a complex, multi-partner research project.
• Motivated to contribute to teaching and student supervision as part of your academic development.

Conditions of Employment
A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station.

In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,204 - max. € 4,051 gross base salary per month (full-time)).
• In addition to your base salary, you will receive an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus, both calculated based on your annual gross base salary.
• Generous leave options: a standard 29 days (based on a 38 hour working week) per year that you can increase to 41 days by working two hours more per week (flexible working hours). This is prorated if you work part-time.
• As a TU/e employee, you participate in the ABP pension scheme, providing retirement pension and pension benefits for surviving dependents and occupational disability. TU/e pays 70% of the pension premium, while employees contribute the remaining 30%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, and on-campus children's day care.
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• We support your wellbeing with free 24/7 access to OpenUp, providing you and your family with mental health support, expert guidance, and online training.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the Expat Scheme) for international candidates.

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us
We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The position will be supervised by dr.ir. Bob Walrave as promotor, dr.ir. Rianne Valkenburg as advisor, with cross-university and interdisciplinary supervision involving expertise from TU/e Built Environment, prof. Bige Tunçer, and Leiden University, prof. Peter van Bodegom. The candidate will collaborate closely with the other PhD candidates in RISE, who focus on spatial system mapping and decision-support design, biodiversity monitoring and ecosystem services, and ecological indicators and monitoring strategies.

Information
Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact Bob Walrave (b.walrave@tue.nl) or Rianne Valkenburg (a.c.valkenburg@tue.nl).

Visit our website for more information about the application process.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application
We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post.
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Unfortunately, due to the current closure of the Dutch embassy in Tehran, we are unable to consider applications from candidates residing in Iran at this time, as the required immigration procedures cannot be completed. For further information, please visit our FAQ page.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.