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.
The Department of Social Sciences is looking for a doctoral (junior) researcher in energy communities and post-growth transitions. Established in 2022 within the LUT School of Engineering Sciences, the department focuses on the societal and human dimensions of global sustainability challenges. Its core research areas include sustainable citizenship, people and technology, and societal renewal. In the coming years, the department is expected to develop into an independent school within the university.
The current energy transition is embedded within a growth-oriented paradigm. Achieving a low-carbon society under this paradigm may prove unfeasible, even with extensive deployment of renewable energy, electrification, and efficiency improvements. An energy transition that remains within planetary boundaries necessitates a substantial reduction in both energy consumption and material demand.
Energy communities (ECs) are citizen-led organizations, often established in collaboration with local authorities and small businesses, that collectively produce, share, and manage renewable energy for local consumption. These emerging governance structures contribute to democratizing decision-making, decentralize control over grid infrastructures, and empower citizens to capture and redistribute economic value locally. While ECs are widely recognized for their transformative potential in energy governance, empirical research on how they may contribute to a post-growth society is still emerging.
What your work will be like
The project will explore how ECs may support an energy transition aligned with post-growth principles. Your research will examine whether and how ECs contribute to reducing energy demand, foster democratic participation, and advance energy justice. The doctoral journey will span approximately four years.
In the first stage, you will build a strong theoretical foundation through a systematic literature review and map EC models across Europe. The second stage will focus on empirical research, including qualitative case studies, semi-structured interviews, and surveys. This phase includes a three-month research visit to Politecnico di Milano, Italy, to strengthen international collaboration. In the final stage, you will integrate qualitative and quantitative findings to finalize your doctoral thesis.
Throughout the project, you will publish three peer-reviewed articles, participate in international conferences and summer schools, and engage in dissemination activities such as policy briefs.
The employment relationship will start with a one-year term (including a six-month trial period) and depending on the progress of your studies and research—specifically, the completion of 10 ECTS and submission of the first article within the first year— it will be extended for up to three additional years.
A junior researcher must apply to the LUT Doctoral School for the right to complete doctoral studies within the first two months of the appointment.
What we expect from you
This position requires a master’s degree in social sciences. Other academic backgrounds, such as economics (including ecological or energy economics) or engineering (especially a focus on energy systems and renewable energy), will also be considered.
We particularly value familiarity with topics such as post-growth models, sustainability transitions, energy systems modeling, and energy justice.
You should have knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methods or be willing to acquire new methodological skills during the first year of your doctoral studies. Success in this position requires the ability to work independently, communicate your findings clearly, and collaborate effectively within an international research community.
A strong academic background, genuine interest in pursuing doctoral studies, and commitment to completing the degree on schedule are essential.
What we offer
We offer a dynamic and supportive environment at the Department of Social Sciences, where you can develop your own research profile and engage with the evolving field of post-growth research in relation to sustainability transitions.
The work will start as soon as possible and preferably by February 2026. The job is based at the Lappeenranta campus. Hybrid work arrangements are possible, although regular on-site presence is required.
The hours are flexible, supporting work-life balance. In accordance with the collective agreement for Finnish universities, the position follows the system of 1,612 annual working hours.
The salary is determined according to the Finnish university salary system for teaching and research staff (requirement level 1). The starting salary is approximately EUR 2,780 per month, depending on experience and qualifications.
Interested? Please submit your application by 6 February 2026 at 23:59 (UTC+2h). Fill out the online application form and attach the following documents in PDF format:
- A short motivation letter explaining your relevant experience and your motivation for this position
- A curriculum vitae (CV) following the guidelines of the Finnish Advisory Board on Research Integrity
- Scanned copies of your Master’s degree certificate and transcript of records; if documents are not in English or Finnish, include certified translations. If your degree is unfinished, include an official estimate of the completion date
- Your Master’s thesis, a draft, an abstract, or other significant research work
- A one-page statement describing your research interests and how they align with the project
- Contact details of two references
We will review applications on a rolling basis.
For more information, please contact Associate professor Salvatore Ruggiero by e-mail at salvatore.ruggiero@lut.fi .
Read more about LUT as an employer and the LUT Doctoral School.
Explore information for international staff.
LUT University seeks solutions to global issues with its expertise in technology, business, and social sciences. LUT is a trailblazer in promoting the energy transition and the regenerative use of natural resources and helps build resilient communities, industry, and businesses through data, research, and education. LUT’s campuses are in Lappeenranta and Lahti, Finland, but its impact is global. Lut.fi/en
Technical support for using the recruitment system: recruitment@lut.fi.