The PNN is the national organization representing the interests of PhD candidates across the Netherlands. PNN is dedicated to promoting the rights and interests of PhD candidates in various areas, such as working conditions, professional development, and improving the PhD trajectory. Additionally, PNN advocates for inclusive and open science, where PhD researchers are given the space to develop their talents and focus on building a sustainable academic career. PNN collaborates closely with branch organizations, research institutions, and policymakers to enhance the PhD environment. It also organizes events and provides a platform for PhD candidates to share knowledge and experiences. At our quarterly general assemblies, representatives from local PhD organizations at all Dutch universities and UMCs come together to discuss key issues.
From January 1st 2026, PNN is looking for reinforcements in the form of a general board member, the Employment Conditions portfolio with a focus on External, International and Scholarship PhD students.
Job description:
As a general board member you would have very diverse tasks including attending monthly board meetings, occasional national meetings, and contributing to discussions on policies concerning external, scholarship, and PhD candidates, among other tasks.
Terms of employment and working conditions are important themes within the PNN that have a direct influence on all PhD candidates in the Netherlands. The portfolio holder of Employment Conditions for External, International and Scholarship PhD students would be committed to the PhD candidates with these contract types. This also entails maintaining contact with the various national and international organizations such as Nuffic and Marie Curie Alumni Association, responding to queries from international, scholarship, and external PhD candidates, and participating in the Know Your Rights sessions, where many of these candidates are present. In addition, you would also be involved in developing and setting out policy within the PNN and maintaining and expanding the PNN network. There is also always room (together with other board members) to get started on an individual project, such as the national Supervisor of the Year Award, and writing a position paper and article on internationalization in Dutch academia.
Who are we looking for?
- You are registered as a PhD candidate at a Dutch university.
- You are enthusiastic about the PNN and would like to gain (extra) board experience.
- You like to work together, but you are also able to act proactively and independently.
- You have a vision and drive and you can translate these into policy.
- You have the capacity to act analytically, both within the board and the association and with (partner) organizations.
- You are prepared to spend an average of 8 hours per week in the PNN for at least 1 year. If you have busy research or teaching periods, this time can be deviated from in consultation: your thesis always comes first.
- You enjoy thinking along about and contributing to issues such as the PhD scholarship experiment, the position of various PhDs in the current PhD climate and the implementation of the new Recognition and Rewards in the Netherlands.
What do we offer?
- A reimbursement for the travel costs you incur due to your board position.
- Possible and compensation in time, in the form of an extension of your PhD trajectory.
- At least one year in an enthusiastic and driven team of fellow board members from all over the Netherlands.
- Many opportunities for own initiatives and developing new skills.
- The possibility to expand your network.
- The pleasure and satisfaction it gives to think about policy and to work on a better promotion climate in the Netherlands.
Enthusiastic?
Questions or interested? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Any questions about PNN can be directed to Teebah Abu-Zahra (bibspromovendi@hetpnn.nl).
You can send your cover letter and CV to secretaris@hetpnn.nl. We kindly request to receive your application no later than November 21nd. The online interviews will take place during the week of November 24th.
