The prospective PhD researchers will conduct research on the fragmentation of global governance architectures across three different empirical domains within sustainability governance: climate change; biodiversity; marine governance. The PhD researchers are expected to address the research questions from different theoretical and methodological perspectives, including institutional perspectives, discourse analysis and social network theory.
Project Summary:
A major concern for scholars and practitioners is the increasing fragmentation of global governance architectures across a number of policy domains. While global governance architectures can be highly integrated (as in the case of the free trade architecture governed by one overarching institution), the environmental domain is fragmented among competing sets of policies, actor constellations, fundamental norms and underlying discourses. The consequences of this development for effective, equitable and legitimate global governance are not well understood. This project will (1) take stock of the existing level of fragmentation across a number of issue-areas in global environmental politics (climate change; biodiversity; marine governance); (2) explain the causes of fragmentation of global governance architectures based on a carefully designed set of variables; (3) analyze the implications of fragmentation across different scales of governance (i.e. international, regional and domestic levels); and finally (4) suggest policy responses to increased fragmentation.
Requirements:
– Excellent masterdegree in Social Sciences or Environmental Studies;
– English language proficiency;
– Strong analytical skills;
– Strong theoretical background in International Relations; governance theory;
– Experienced in qualitative and quantitative research methods;
– Knowledge of discourse analysis or social network analysis.
The appointment will initially be for one year. After satisfactory evaluation of the initial appointment, it can be extended for a total duration of four years. The starting date is 1 January 2013. You can find information about our excellent fringe benefits of employment at www.workingatvu.nl like:
• Remuneration of 8,3% end-of-year bonus and 8% holiday allowance
• solid pension scheme (ABP)
• a minimum of 29 holidays In case of full-time employment
• discounts on collective insurances (healthcare- and car insurance)
The salary will be in accordance with university regulations for academic personnel, and amounts € 2.042,- gross per month in the first year up to € 2.612,- in the fourth year (salary scale 85) based on a full-time employment.
For additional information please contact:
Dr Philipp Pattberg
Phone number +31 (0)20 5989542
E-mail: Philipp.pattberg@vu.nl
Application:
Applicants are requested to write a letter in which they describe their abilities and motivation, accompanied by a curriculum vitae and one reference. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a Skype/ telephone interview.
Written applications should be sent before 15 September 2012 to: VU University Amsterdam, att dr. Y.K.M. Kops, managing director, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands. It is also possible to apply by e-mail to: vacature.falw@vu.nl
