The University of Copenhagen is inviting applications for a PhD fellowship in Urban Water Management, focusing on Nature-based Stormwater Management. The position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of sustainable, water-sensitive urban design strategies aimed at achieving near-zero stormwater discharge in cities.

Applicants must hold a degree equivalent to a Danish master’s degree in a relevant field such as geosciences, environmental science, hydrology, civil engineering, urban planning, landscape architecture, or related disciplines. They should have a solid understanding of urban water management, soil–water–plant interactions, and eco-hydrology, along with strong analytical and design skills.

The University of Copenhagen (UCPH) is Denmark’s largest and oldest university and consistently ranks among Europe’s leading research institutions. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability, the university offers a wide range of programs across six faculties. UCPH fosters a vibrant international environment, encouraging collaboration across disciplines to address global challenges in science, health, social sciences, and the humanities.

Application Deadline: 5 October 2025 (23:59 GMT +1)

Brief Description

• University or Organization: University of Copenhagen

• Department: Department of Geosciences and Natural Resource Management (IGN)

• Course Level: PhD

• Award: Salary and research support

• Access Mode: Online application

• Number of Awards: NA

• Nationality: Open to all nationalities except Chinese citizens (including Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao) due to funding regulations

• The award can be taken in: Denmark (University of Copenhagen) and China (University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing)

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: All countries except China (including Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao)

• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The fellowship is awarded in Urban Water Management with a focus on Nature-based Stormwater Management offered by the University of Copenhagen.

• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Hold a degree equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS BSc + 120 ECTS MSc) in a relevant field.

  • Have an academic background in one or more of the following disciplines: Geosciences, Physical Geography, Environmental Science, Hydrology, Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Urban Design, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Planning, Sustainability Science, or related fields.

  • Demonstrate knowledge of soil–water–plant interactions, urban hydrology, eco-hydrology, and water quality aspects.

  • Possess strong design skills and an interest in developing systemic, innovative solutions for urban sustainability.

  • Have good English language skills (written and spoken).

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online in English through the University of Copenhagen’s application portal. Applicants should include:

• A motivated letter of application (max. 1 page)

• Curriculum vitae detailing education, experience, and skills

• Certified diplomas and transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)

• Publication list (if available)

• Reference letters (if available)

Benefits

• Fully funded 3-year PhD fellowship with salary in accordance with the agreement between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations.

• International research experience with one year of study at UCAS, Beijing.

• Access to state-of-the-art laboratories, modeling tools, and living labs.

• Opportunity to publish in high-impact journals and collaborate within a global academic network.

• Work under the supervision of leading experts in urban water management and sustainable landscape design.

Apply Now