The University of Twente invites applications for a PhD position within the PRE-MADONA project, focusing on developing governance frameworks for the digital transformation of large-scale renovation processes. The successful candidate will design and evaluate multi-layered governance structures to guide the implementation of digital ecosystems for sustainable, inclusive, and data-driven renovation workflows.

Important Information

About the Project

The PRE-MADONA project seeks to digitally transform renovation processes for residential districts through inclusive, efficient, and sustainable governance frameworks. This PhD focuses on developing a multi-layered governance model to manage the flow of data, technology, and responsibilities across diverse stakeholders — from individual households to district-level administrations.

The project will explore:

• Data privacy, access, and ownership in large-scale renovation initiatives.

• Distribution of responsibilities and accountability within digital ecosystems.

• Governance mechanisms that integrate social, organizational, and regulatory contexts.

• Strategies for aligning digital technologies with sustainable and inclusive renovation goals.

This research combines social science, engineering, and digital innovation — offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the socio-technical transformation of Europe’s built environment.

Key Research Objectives

• Map socio-technical contexts and data flows within mass-scale renovation projects.

• Analyze stakeholder interactions and perceptions influenced by digital tools.

• Identify the relationship between digital technologies and renovation workflow transformations.

• Develop multi-scale governance frameworks (organizational, project, district levels).

• Support inclusive, sustainable, and politically aware digital transitions in construction.

Team and Collaboration

You will work within a multidisciplinary team of three PhD researchers in PRE-MADONA, collaborating with experts from:

• University of Twente (Construction Management & Engineering Cluster)

• Saxion University of Applied Sciences

• Hanze University of Applied Sciences

• Industry partners in the Dutch construction and digital innovation sectors

This environment provides cross-disciplinary mentorship and a strong network across academia and industry.

Candidate Profile

Required Skills

• MSc in Construction Management, Engineering, Built Environment, or related field.

• Interest in digital transformation, socio-materiality, and governance systems.

• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication abilities.

• Team player who demonstrates initiative and self-driven learning.

• Proficient in English (spoken and written).

Preferred Skills

• Dutch language skills (advantageous but not mandatory).

• Background in smart cities, data governance, or digital twin technologies.

• Experience with qualitative and/or mixed-method research.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct original research on digital governance structures in renovation workflows.

• Design and evaluate socio-technical governance models across different scales.

• Collaborate with industry partners and academic teams.

• Present results at international conferences and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

• Participate in doctoral training and skill development workshops.

Benefits and Employment Conditions

• Full employment as a PhD researcher at the University of Twente.

• Duration: 4 years (with a qualifier exam after 6–9 months).

• Salary: €3,059/month (Year 1) – €3,881/month (Year 4).

• Extras:

  • 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus.

  • Minimum of 41 vacation days per year (full-time).

  • Pension and healthcare benefits included.

  • Access to sports and cultural facilities on the green UT campus.

• Mentorship: Strong supervision and opportunities for academic development.

How to Apply

Application Requirements:

1. Cover Letter (max 2 pages – outlining motivation, research interests, and qualifications)

2. Detailed CV

3. Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)

4. English test results (if MSc not taught in English)

5. Publication list (if applicable)

6. Contact details of two referees

📤 Submit your application via the University of Twente online system before January 7, 2026.

Selection Process:

• Step 1: Online Application

• Step 2: Review and Shortlisting (response within 2 weeks post-deadline)

• Step 3: First Interview (with short presentation, on-campus preferred)

• Step 4: Second Interview (in-depth discussion)

• Step 5: Final Offer and onboarding

🗓️ First interviews: Week of January 12, 2026

About the Organisation

The Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) at the University of Twente focuses on innovation across Mechanical, Civil, and Industrial Design Engineering. The faculty’s mission is to enable a people-first, sustainable technological transformation through interdisciplinary research and education.

It collaborates with research institutes such as:

• MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology

• TechMed Centre

• Digital Society Institute

With 2,900 students and 700 staff, ET is at the forefront of sustainable construction and digital transformation in Europe.