Phd In Innovation Ecosystems For Circular Economy
This PhD position at Forschungszentrum Jülich in Jülich, Germany centers on critical research within innovation ecosystems driving the circular economy transition. Hosted by the Institute of Energy and Climate Research's Systems Analysis and Technology Evaluation section (ICE-2), the project examines how market dynamics and innovation diffusion catalyze sustainability transformations in industrial systems. The candidate will work within Europe's largest research institution, leveraging Helmholtz Association resources while contributing to urgent sustainability challenges through interdisciplinary economic analysis.
Responsibilities
- Conducting market dynamics analysis using Innovation Ecosystems and Diffusion Theory frameworks
- Integrating institutional, behavioral, and resource economics concepts into cohesive analytical models
- Identifying and parameterizing circular industrial processes central to sustainability transformation
- Validating substitution potentials for bio-based feedstocks across industrial applications
- Assessing sustainability impacts of transformation scenarios through quantitative modeling
- Evaluating European and global trade potentials for circular economy solutions
- Developing empirical analysis methodologies and implementing computational models
- Supervising student theses while disseminating findings through academic publications and international conferences
Requirements
- Master's degree in economics, business engineering, natural sciences, or data science with exceptional academic performance
- Knowledge in environmental/resource economics
- Strong analytical capabilities for complex economic-resource systems
- Proficiency in quantitative data analysis techniques
- Deep understanding of circular economy principles, bioeconomy concepts, and sustainable development frameworks
- Excellent English fluency for research communication
- High motivation for independent and team-based interdisciplinary work
Benefits
- Access to cutting-edge scientific infrastructure at Europe's largest research center
- Integration into an international, interdisciplinary research team
- Comprehensive supervision through dedicated academic mentoring
- Networking opportunities via international conference participation
- Flexible working arrangements supporting work-life balance
- Dedicated support services for international researchers
- Structured doctoral program with 3-year completion pathway
- 30 annual vacation days
- Comprehensive diversity initiatives supporting researchers from all backgrounds
Pay
Financial compensation follows German public sector standards with classification in TVöD-Bund pay group 13 (75% position) including special payments equivalent to 60% of monthly salary as Christmas bonus. The three-year fixed-term contract aligns with typical German doctoral timelines.