Institution: University of Lodz, Faculty of Economics and Sociology, Social-Ecological Systems Analysis Lab

City: Lodz

Position: postdoctoral researcher

Discipline: economics and finance and/or social and economic geography and spatial management

We are seeking a candidate to join the team at the Social-Ecological Systems Analysis Lab at the University of Lodz, specifically the team implementing the research project "Enhancing Urban Resilience to Disasters and Conflicts through Nature-Based Infrastructure" (ResilientUrbanNBI), funded by the National Centre for Research and Development as part of the international partnership Driving Urban Transitions. The advertised position is for a 30-month civil law contract, commencing on February 1, 2026 (the exact start date may be subject to negotiation).

The successful candidate will:

• Conduct survey research and research based on workshops among the Ukrainian community living in Poland.

• Coordinate research conducted in Ukraine.

• The research will focus on the use of urban green spaces, engagement in civic ecology practices, and the perceived value of the natural environment, as well as pro-environmental attitudes.

• Conduct conceptual analysis on the importance of urban green spaces and nature-based solutions in the context of post-conflict/disaster recovery (in relation to the 'greening in the red zone' concept).

• Contribute to publications, international conferences, and dissemination activities.

• Have the opportunity to take part in other research carried out at the Social-Ecological Systems Analysis Lab.

• Earn PLN 14,000 per month (gross-gross).

Required qualifications

• Experience in the social sciences, particularly in the application of social research methods (including surveys and focus group/workshop methods).

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

• Advanced analytical skills.

• A strong academic record.

• Doctorate in economics, sociology, socioeconomic geography and spatial planning, or related disciplines.

• Fluency in English and Ukrainian or Russian, both spoken and written, is essential for writing scientific texts, presenting at conferences, and for ongoing communication within the project and with study groups.

• A possible exemption from the requirement for fluency in Ukrainian or Russian may apply only to candidates with particularly relevant research experience.

• Experience using GIS software will be an additional asset.

Application

Please, submit:

• a cover letter addressed to the project PI (Jakub Kronenberg), stating your interest in the project and the tasks;

• a copy of the PhD diploma and any other diplomas the applicant has obtained;

• CV, including a list of publications, main conference presentations and research projects;

• evidence of language skills (e.g. certificates);

• list of potential references.

Online interviews with selected candidates will be conducted in the last week of 2025 and in the second week of January 2026. The results will be announced by January 12, 2026.

Additional information

• For individuals whose doctoral diploma is not officially recognised in Poland, a formal recognition procedure for diplomas will also be necessary.

• For informal inquiries and to apply, please contact project PI Jakub Kronenberg: jakub.kronenberg@uni.lodz.pl (indicating ‘ResilientUrbanNBI’ in the subject line).

• Winning the competition does not guarantee employment at the University of Lodz.

economics and finance

social surveys; civic ecology; citizen participation; greening in the red zone; resilience; post-conflict/post-disaster reconstruction; environmental values; people and nature; urban greening; social-ecological resilience; ecological economics; environmental protection; nature-based solutions