PHD Position in Sustainabale Business: Business as a lever for sustainable development (m/w/d)

Stellenbeschreibung

The newly established international doctoral program "Embracing Transformation" invites applications from scientifically outstanding and committed Master's graduates striving to become part of a new hub for transformation research at Leuphana University of Lüneburg. PhD scholars will take part in a unique university-wide research endeavor, combining both disciplinary and interdisciplinary seminars, workshops and conferences related to international transformation research. The unique and internationally competitive doctoral program provides cutting-edge methods and advanced theories in five interdisciplinary key subject areas.

The PhD Position "Business as a lever for sustainable development" is part of the key subject area on "Companies as Drivers of Sustainability Transformations". This subject area focuses on the crucial role businesses play in shaping sustainable markets and societies. While companies contribute to environmental and social challenges, they also hold the potential to drive positive change. We explore how organizations can foster sustainable consumption, responsible business relationships, and long-term environmental and social transformation, both within and beyond their boundaries. Applicants for the PhD position on "Business as a lever for sustainable development" should be willing to learn and employ quantitative research methods to explore at least one of the following aspects:

• The role of companies in societal sustainability transformations
• Sustainable consumption as a lever for sustainability transformations
• Sustainable business an stakeholder relationships
• Sustainable entrepreneurship
• Sustainability reporting
• Regenerative business practices

The best PhD proposals for each research area are eligible for an excellence-based scholarship. The best PhD proposals for each research area are eligible for an excellence-based scholarship. Self- or externally funded doctoral candidates meeting the scientific criteria are welcome to apply. The PhD positions are carried out under the umbrella of the new Leuphana Transformation Lab and are a joint endeavor of Leuphana's five academic Schools. The PhD Position "Business as a lever for sustainable development" will be located at the School for Sustainability, Centre for Sustainability Management. Application deadline is 31 January 2026. The program starts in April 2026.

What we offer:

• Unique doctoral program featuring interdisciplinary seminars on transformation research
• Monthly stipend of € 1,850 with additional child allowance for the top 36 applicants (3 years, starting in April 2026)
• Exclusive professional program on "Transformative leadership and responsibility"
• Eligibility for research funding covering for research expenses up to € 4,000 annually
• Access to dedicated office space within Leuphana's outstanding campus facilities

What you need to qualify:

• Excellent Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject area
• Profound interest in sustainability, consumer behavior and quantitative research methods

For more information regarding the position, the required documents and the application and admissions process, please visit our website or contact Prof. Dr. Jacob Hörisch (Jacob.hoerisch@leuphana.de). Please submit your application via the application system. We are very much looking forward to welcoming you to this unique opportunity of engaging with sustainable consumption!

Kontakt

Leuphana Universität Lüneburg