The Promovendi Netwerk Nederland (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 a general board member for the Research Affairs portfolio.
Job Description:
As a general board member, you will have a variety of responsibilities. The portfolio focuses on issues relating to the doctoral trajectory, including professional development, and the research process during the PhD. Two key topics in this portfolio are Open and Responsible Science and Recognition and Rewards. The relationship between science and society is changing, and academic research is moving towards a more transparent, open and responsible way of doing science. However, PhD candidates are not always supported when engaging in Open and Responsible Science practices. At the same time, they face pressure to publish in high-impact journals while also expected to engage in teaching, outreach and other tasks. In the light of the national Recognition and Rewards programme, that recognises that there is room for everyone’s talent in academia, PhD trajectories need to be re-evaluated to give PhD researchers the space to balance their research with activities and functions that align with their talents and preferences, such that their contributions to the entire research process are recognized and rewarded. You will work with a variety of partners, both institutional and grassroot initiatives, to advocate for the interests of PhD candidates relating to these topics.
Beyond your portfolio, you will also be involved in developing and implementing policies within PNN, as well as maintaining and expanding the PNN network. Additionally, there’s always room to take on a separate project, such as organizing the national day for PhD candidate organizations together with other board members.
Who are we looking for?
- You are registered as a PhD-candidate at a Dutch university.
- You are enthusiastic about PNN and eager to gain (additional) board experience.
- You enjoy working with others, can inspire and connect people, and are able to act proactively and independently.
- You have vision and drive, and you can translate these into policy.
- You possess the ability to think analytically, both within the board and the association, as well as in dealings with (partner) organizations.
- You are willing to dedicate an average of 8-12 hours per week to PNN for at least one year. If you have busy research or teaching periods, this time commitment can be adjusted in consultation: your dissertation always comes first.
- You enjoy thinking about and engaging with issues such as Open and Responsible Science, research integrity, social safety and all matters relating to the PhD trajectories of different PhD candidates in Dutch academia.
What do we offer?
- Reimbursement for travel expenses incurred due to your board role.
- Potential compensation in time, in the form of an extension of your PhD trajectory.
- At least one year of working in a passionate and motivated team of fellow board members from across the Netherlands.
- Many opportunities for your own initiatives and the development of new skills.
- The chance to expand your network.
- The pleasure and satisfaction of contributing to policy development and working towards a better environment for PhD candidates in the Netherlands.
Enthusiastic?
Questions or interest? Don’t hesitate to contact us! We encourage you to contact us for an informal chat before submitting your application. You can contact Martijn van der Meer (voorzitter@hetpnn.nl) for any questions you might have about PNN or the portfolio.Please send your cover letter and CV to secretaris@hetpnn.nl. We kindly request that you submit your application by November 21st. Online interviews will take place in the week of November 24th.
