Apply for a fully funded 4-year PhD at Utrecht University to study the socio-economic effects of climate tipping points like AMOC. Join the EMBRACER project and contribute to impactful sustainability research. Deadline: 30 August 2025.
Join a Groundbreaking Climate Research Initiative
Are you passionate about tackling the pressing challenges of climate change and interested in using data-driven models to understand its impact on societies? Utrecht University is offering a 4-year PhD position within the EMBRACER project—a prestigious 10-year interdisciplinary research program that brings together world-leading climate experts. This role focuses on studying the socio-economic effects of climate tipping points, particularly the weakening or potential collapse of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC).
About the Project
As part of the EMBRACER project, this PhD research aims to shed light on one of the most concerning climate tipping points—the AMOC. The AMOC plays a crucial role in shaping Europe’s climate, and its weakening could have far-reaching consequences including:
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Harsher, colder winters and intensified storms across Europe
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Disruption to food supply chains and maritime infrastructure
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Economic impacts on marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods
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Potential localized economic benefits, countering global warming in some regions
The project seeks to understand these uncertain outcomes using advanced climate-socioeconomic modelling tools such as:
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IMAGE model – An integrated assessment model linking climate systems with human behavior
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Cost-benefit analysis models – To explore financially optimal strategies
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Agent-based models – To simulate human behavioral responses to climatic shifts
You’ll collaborate with a team of interdisciplinary experts and have flexibility to develop your own research trajectory within the project’s broad scope.
Your Responsibilities
As a PhD candidate, your tasks will include:
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Developing and applying advanced numerical models to simulate socio-economic impacts of AMOC weakening
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Analyzing large datasets and simulating climate scenarios
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Contributing to academic papers, project reports, and presentations
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Participating in interdisciplinary research discussions and team meetings
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Exploring the integration of climate and socio-economic data for policy-relevant insights
What You’ll Need
We are looking for a motivated, self-driven researcher with:
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A Master’s degree in physics, applied mathematics, environmental sciences, computational science, or a related field
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Excellent programming and data analysis skills
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Familiarity with environmental or climate-related processes
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Strong scientific writing and communication skills
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An interest in interdisciplinary collaboration and high-impact research
What You’ll Receive
Utrecht University offers a highly supportive and inclusive environment, as well as:
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A 4-year contract with a competitive gross monthly salary ranging from €2,901 to €3,707
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8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus
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Flexible working arrangements and professional development schemes
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A thriving research community at the Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development
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Access to cutting-edge infrastructure and expert mentorship under the EMBRACER programme
About Utrecht University and the Copernicus Institute
Utrecht University is one of Europe’s leading research universities, known for tackling global challenges with a multidisciplinary approach. The Faculty of Geosciences and its Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development focus on understanding the Earth system and promoting sustainability through research, education, and societal engagement. The Environmental Sciences group—where the position is hosted—explores the interaction between terrestrial ecosystems and global environmental change.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking the “Apply Now” button on the official job page. Please submit the following documents:
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A detailed motivation letter
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Your CV (including academic achievements and programming experience)
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Contact details of at least two referees
Application deadline: 30 August 2025
Need More Info?
For specific questions about the role, contact:
Dr. Els Weinans – e.weinans@uu.nl
For questions about the application process, contact:
Sophie Ketting – s.j.ketting@uu.nl
Diversity and Inclusion
Utrecht University is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming academic environment. Applications from underrepresented backgrounds are highly encouraged.
For more opportunities, visit opportunitiesforyouth.org.
