The Transnational Centre for Just Transitions in Energy, Climate and Sustainability (TRAJECTS) invites applications for nine fully funded PhD scholarships for the period August 2026 – July 2030 at partner universities in Germany, South Africa and Colombia. TRAJECTS supports doctoral research that advances socially just transitions in energy, climate and sustainability and strengthens South–South–North academic exchange and collaboration. Each selected candidate will be enrolled at one host institution and co-supervised within the TRAJECTS network.

TRAJECTS publishes a list of suggested PhD topics within the Call that applicants can apply to. However, candidates may also propose a combination of several topics or self-developed research ideas that align with the overarching objectives of TRAJECTS, which are:

• Mitigating climate change by phasing-out fossil fuels (i.a. climate policies or employment effects of the energy transition).
• Sustainable integration of renewable energy systems (i.a. topics from energy access, circular economy of renewable energy to hydrogen production).
• Socio-ecological transitions in critical areas, with emphasis on regions highly dependent on fossil fuels (i.a. social-ecological considerations of renewable energy, post-carbon urban transitions, agroecological transitions, environmental conflicts due to land and energy extractive activities, and hydroclimatological perspectives).

Applicants are also required to clearly specify the geographical focus of their proposal. This may include Colombia and/or South Africa, or a wider analysis covering neighbouring regions or a global scope.

The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of around 1,300–1,400€ (depending on location), mobility funding within the TRAJECTS network and access to training and language support. Tuition fees are not covered and must be clarified directly with the respective host institution. Applicants are required to indicate the corresponding topic code in the application form and are strongly encouraged to review the full Call for Applications before submitting their materials.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Exposé / pre-proposal of the proposed PhD project (3–6 pages)
• Motivation letter (1 page)
• One academic recommendation letter
• Proof of completed academic studies (transcript and/or certificate of Master’s degree)
• Optional supporting documents:
  • Certificates of relevant work experience, training, or internships
  • Self-declaration or certification as member of an underrepresented group (if applicable)
  • Proof of enrolment/acceptance as a PhD student
  • Language proof