Postdoctoral Researcher in Circular; Public Procurement

Postdoctoral Researcher in Circular (Public) Procurement

Tilburg University | Tilburg School of Economics and Management – Department:
Information Systems and Operations Management

Contract: 1 FTE, 1 year, start September 1, 2026 (or shortly thereafter).

Tilburg University seeks a postdoctoral researcher to study how Dutch municipalities can successfully implement and scale circular (public) procurement for construction-related activities. The project will develop practical guidelines that help municipalities implement circular procurement on a larger scale in construction projects, and that promote more uniformity in circular construction within regional ecosystems.

• Lead the development and empirical validation of practical guidelines for municipalities.
• Conduct qualitative research and data analysis within construction supply chains.
• Collaborate with colleagues in ISOM and external partners from the province of Brabant and participating municipalities.
• Contribute to academic publications and practice-oriented tools.
• Assist with overall coordination, project reporting, and event organization.
• Optionally support teaching activities in operations and supply chain management and sustainability (not mandatory).

• PhD in procurement, supply chain management, industrial engineering, sustainability, or a related field.
• Solid background in qualitative research.
• Excellent English academic writing and oral communication skills.
• Strong interest in circular economy procurement, public sector, and construction industry.
• Independent and collaborative working style within interdisciplinary teams.
• Strong project management skills and experience in research projects with industry or societal partners.

• Employment of 1 FTE for 12 months.
• Salary: €3,546–€5,538 gross per month (UFO-profile Researcher 4, salary scale 10).
• Vacation pay 8%, year-end bonus 8.3%.
• Over 8 weeks of vacation leave.
• Hybrid working – home working allowance €2 per day and internet allowance €25 per month.
• Reimbursement for sustainable commuting (walking, cycling, public transport).
• Options model for additional leave, pension, bicycle purchase, or personal training.
• 30% rule for international employees (if applicable).
• Pension through ABP.

Tilburg University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.