Imagine a future where young people use AI to shape cities that fight climate change. The University of Groningen offers an exciting PhD position for 2026 that makes this real. This fully funded role focuses on AI in urban design and youth involvement in planning climate-smart cities.
What Makes This PhD Opportunity Special
This PhD project introduces “Vibe-Designing,” a new way to use generative AI in group planning for cities. AI acts like a bridge, helping young people, planners, and leaders talk through images and ideas. It tackles a big problem: young voices and those from overlooked groups often get ignored in city decisions, even as AI changes how we picture urban spaces.
The goal is to blend tech with real participation in an ethical way. Applications close on April 30, 2026, at 23:59 Dutch time. It’s a chance to lead research that mixes society, tech, and green urban growth.
Key Goals of the Project
The research looks at how AI changes group planning and who holds power in those talks. It also checks how culture, rules, and local systems affect using AI in design. A main focus is how youth use AI to push for cities that handle climate change better.
Researchers will mix theory with hands-on studies to build tools for everyday city planning. This work fills a gap by making sure AI helps include more people in building better futures.
What the PhD Candidate Will Do
The person picked will write a thesis with four journal articles. Tasks include a review of past studies on AI in group planning. They will do fieldwork like interviews and watching real urban settings.
Other duties cover running workshops with youth and AI, talking to leaders and AI makers, and studying ethics and culture. About 15% of time goes to teaching. Methods mix talks, group chats, watching people, and image-based tools.
The University of Groningen Setting
Groningen ranks high in Europe for research. Its Spatial Sciences faculty leads on green cities and change. Over 100 PhD students and global experts create a lively spot for new ideas.
The school values diversity and safety, so everyone can do their best work.
Salary and Perks
This job pays well by Dutch standards. Monthly salary starts at €3,059 and rises to €3,881 over four years. It’s full-time, with a check after year one.
You get 232 vacation hours a year on a 38-hour week. Plus 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus. There is support for growth, travel, and sharing your work.
Who They Want for This Role
Look for people with drive and a master’s in urban planning, geography, anthropology, or similar. Know qualitative methods like interviews or group studies. Good English and people skills matter. Cultural awareness helps too.
Extra points for participatory design, digital tools, or AI ethics. No need for deep AI coding skills.
How to Apply
Send your application by April 30, 2026. Check the details and apply through the official link: APPLY HERE.
Conclusion
This PhD at the University of Groningen lets you shape how AI boosts youth input in green cities. It puts you at the front of urban change.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of this PhD project?
It explores how generative AI, called Vibe-Designing, helps youth and planners create climate-resilient cities while ensuring ethical participation.
What qualifications do candidates need?
A master’s in urban planning, geography, or similar, plus skills in qualitative methods like interviews; experience in AI ethics or design is a plus.
What is the salary and benefits?
Monthly pay starts at €3,059 and rises to €3,881 over four years, with 232 vacation hours, holiday pay, and year-end bonus.
How do I apply for this position?
Submit your application by April 30, 2026, at 23:59 Dutch time through the official University of Groningen link.
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