Post Doc position sustainable consumer behaviour welfare groups

This postdoctoral research lies at the intersection of environmental psychology, consumer behaviour and design, examining pro‑environmental behaviour across different welfare groups in society. Job description

The research group of Responsible Marketing and Consumer Behaviour at the Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering (IDE) is looking for a postdoc researcher with a background in behavioural science, psychology or marketing to study sustainable behavioural change across welfare groups in society. This research stems from the observation that most behaviour change models look at the average consumer, and often at low income populations.

Little is known on how pro‑environmental decisions are made across welfare groups, including high‑income and affluent individuals. This is important as a one‑size‑fits‑all approach to sustainable consumption interventions and policies may not be effective, underscoring the need for differentiated strategies. More research is therefore needed on the psychological and social factors underlying decisions and behaviour of individuals across different welfare groups.

This postdoc research will contribute to this understanding through quantitative research methods by collecting data through experiments and surveys. Findings from this work will also inform the development of design guidelines and intervention strategies aimed at promoting sustainable consumption tailored to different welfare groups.

The research group Responsible Marketing and Consumer Research focusses on theories and models from marketing and consumer research that can contribute to successful new product development (NPD). The group has experience in teaching and conducting high quality research on sustainable consumer behaviour, de‑consumption and in the design and testing of interventions for sustainable behavioural change. By enhancing knowledge in these areas, we aim to help designers create more successful and sustainable product and service.

We are looking for a candidate who meets all of the following key criteria:

• PhD degree in behavioural science, marketing, psychology or in a related field, with a strong interest in the field of sustainable behaviour.
• PhD title already obtained or with a very imminent PhD defence date.
• At least one scientific paper publication in a journal relevant to consumer behaviour, marketing or sustainable consumption (conference papers excluded).
• Excellent research skills, in terms of analytical, conceptual and critical thinking.
• Excellent methodological skills in quantitative research methods in both experiments and surveys, including very good knowledge and practice with analysis tools such as SPSS or R.
• Excellent command of English in reading, scientific writing and speaking.
• Ready to start between March and June 2026.

In addition, we prefer candidates with the following criteria, which are considered a plus:

• PhD degree completed in an European University, preferably in The Netherlands.
• A candidate already located in Europe, preferably in The Netherlands, with familiarity with the European or Dutch context in terms of housing, living and working environment.
• Prior research experience in the field of sustainable consumer behaviour.
• Prior teaching experience (e.g., lecturing, student supervision).
• An understanding of the Dutch language.

This position is for 2 years full time or 2+ for a part‑time contract of 4 days a week. It may be extended in the future, depending on the opportunities within the faculty. The starting date is planned between March and June 2026.

Delft University of Technology is built on strong foundations. As creators of the world‑famous Dutch waterworks and pioneers in biotech, TU Delft is a top international university combining science, engineering and design. It delivers world class results in education, research and innovation to address challenges in the areas of energy, climate, mobility, health and digital society. For generations, our engineers have proven to be entrepreneurial problem‑solvers, both in business and in a social context.

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