Postdoctoral Researcher in Work Identities and Just Transitions Policies

We are seeking a talented and motivated postdoctoral researcher to join an interdisciplinary four-year research project at the Lunds University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS) exploring the intersection of work identities and public support for a just transition in Sweden, Germany, and the UK. This project investigates how against the backdrop of an imminent transformation towards a decarbonised economy and with it the nature of work, workers' multiple worker identities – organisational, occupational, sectoral, regional, environmental - coalesce with values, to influence support for or resistance to decarbonisation and labour just transition efforts.

Collaborating with transformation scholars from LUCSUS, industrial relations researchers from the Centre for Employment Relations, Innovation and Change in Leeds (UK), and environmental sociologists from the Goethe University in Frankfurt (Germany), this research project takes a truly interdisciplinary and international approach to untangle workers identities in the transformation process, at multiple levels. By conducting large-scale, representative worker surveys in three countries with similar decarbonisation paths but different employment relations systems, this research aims to provide actionable insights for national and regional policy-makers and labour organizations to facilitate a just transition tailored to each country’s context.

Role Description

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will: 

• Design and administer large-scale surveys in Sweden, Germany, and the UK, targeting workers in diverse sectors.
• Analyse survey data to understand the interaction of identities, values, and institutional factors during transitions toward decarbonized economies.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary scholars and labour stakeholders in Sweden, Germany and the UK to produce high-impact publications and policy recommendations.
• Disseminate findings through conferences, peer-reviewed journals, and stakeholder engagement activities.

Eligibility Criteria 

Candidates must meet the following qualifications: 

• A completed doctoral degree in social psychology, sociology, (ecological) economics or a related field.
• Research expertise in just transition, policy support, and social and work identities focusing on work and climate change.
• Proven experience in designing and analysing large-scale surveys.
• Proficiency in at least two of the project’s key languages: English, German, and Swedish.
• Established connections with union movements in Sweden, Germany, or the UK.

Assessment Criteria

Applicants will be evaluated based on: 

• Evidence of research productivity, including publications in peer-reviewed journals, reports, and conference presentations.
• Postdoctoral or equivalent research experience in relevant fields.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and engage with policy and labour stakeholders.
• Experience in conducting comparative and cross-cultural research.

A complete application consists of:
•    Personal letter
•    CV: Academic and professional background, detailing relevant experience
•    List of publications 
•    Research Proposal