Postdoctoral Researcher in ESG Transformation and Digital Innovation

The Center for Entrepreneurship, Governance & Stewardship at Nyenrode Business Universiteit is seeking a talented Postdoctoral Researcher specializing in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) transformation and digital innovation.

This position supports the development of innovative frameworks and tools that integrate ESG principles into organizations’ performance cycles, with a particular focus on the role of digital innovation in creating both financial and societal value. The work will contribute to Nyenrode’s mission to inspire responsible leadership while supporting the activities of the ESG Innovation Institute—a collaboration between Nyenrode and KPMG.

What will you do?
As a Postdoctoral Researcher, your work will address key challenges in ESG transformation and digital innovation, including:

• Developing frameworks to define and embed ESG and business goals, integrating “True Valuation” principles.
• Designing tools to assess baselines and align ESG-related KPIs with organizational structures, governance, and digital platforms.
• Exploring innovative technologies and digital tools that facilitate the integration of Business and ESG goals.
• Investigating the organizational implications of ESG integration, including its impact on personnel, processes, and governance.
• Examining ESG digital platforms regarding data collection, analysis, and exchange, for instance in the context of supply chains (scope 3).

You will lead and collaborate on interdisciplinary research projects, publish impactful findings, and contribute to academic and professional education programs. Specific responsibilities include:

• Conducting high-quality research resulting in publications in leading scientific journals and practitioner-focused outlets.
• Co-developing innovative tools, such as Minimum Viable Products (MVPs), for ESG-related digital innovations.
• Supporting the organization of round tables and conferences aimed at fostering dialogue between academic and business communities on ESG transformation and digital innovations.
• Collaborating with stakeholders, including KPMG, to translate research insights into practical applications.

Nyenrode Business Universiteit
Nyenrode Business Universiteit is renowned for its focus on personal development, leadership, and societal impact. Together with KPMG, we have established the ESG Innovation Institute to guide organizations toward sustainable practices that balance financial performance, transparency, and environmental and social responsibilities. Nyenrode’s mission is: “Serving society by shaping responsible leaders for a sustainable future.” Do you want to be part of this mission?

Who are you?
You are an enthusiastic and dedicated researcher with a strong academic and professional background in ESG and digital innovation. You possess:

• A PhD in a relevant field, such as sustainability, digital innovation, information systems, or related discipline.
• A track record of high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience with interdisciplinary research and the ability to connect theoretical insights with practical applications.
• Strong teaching and mentoring skills for working with students and professionals.
• Excellent English communication skills, both written and oral.
• The ability to thrive in collaborative and diverse environments.

What do we offer?
At Nyenrode, we combine professionalism with an informal and collaborative work environment. The appointment is initially for one year, the total duration is approximately three and a half years (0.6 FTE).

We offer:

• A competitive salary, scaled between €3.241 - €5.050 gross (scale 10), depending on qualifications and experience on a full-time basis (38 hrs).
• Attractive secondary benefits, including potential tax advantages for international candidates.
• Opportunities for professional growth and engagement in an intellectually stimulating environment.

Interested?
Candidates are invited to submit their application (cover letter, CV, sample publications, and three references) via the apply button.

For questions regarding this position, contact Prof. dr. Albert Plugge at a.plugge@nyenrode.nl.

Application Deadline: March 30, 2025

The university is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining an intellectually and culturally diverse faculty. Nyenrode's ambition is to create an inclusive working environment where everybody feels involved, valued, and recognized. In addition to your talent, experience, and motivation, the specific aspects of your identity enrich our organization in various ways. Talent as basis, diversity as power.