PhD in Economics (Including Ecological Or Energy Economics)

Shape the future of sustainable energy at LUT University! We are offering a fully funded doctoral position exploring how new governance structures can advance the transition toward post-growth energy systems./nThe Department of Social Sciences at LUT University (Lappeenranta campus) seeks a doctoral (junior) researcher in energy communities and post-growth transitions. The project explores how energy communities (ECs) may support an energy transition aligned with post-growth principles, examining contributions to reducing energy demand, fostering democratic participation, and advancing energy justice./nThe doctoral journey will span approximately four years and includes theoretical work (systematic literature review, mapping EC models across Europe), empirical research (qualitative case studies, semi-structured interviews, surveys), a three-month research visit to Politecnico di Milano, Italy, and integration of qualitative and quantitative findings to finalize the doctoral thesis./nThe position involves publishing three peer-reviewed articles, participating in international conferences and summer schools, and dissemination activities such as policy briefs. The job is based at the Lappeenranta campus with hybrid work arrangements possible and regular on-site presence required.