Do you want to help shape a thriving economic and financial system that serves people and the planet? Join the Sustainable Finance Lab (SFL), an academic think tank of leading economists and thought leaders dedicated to research with real world impact. We are looking for a Head of Research to take our strategic research agenda to the next level.
About Sustainable Finance Lab
Since 2011, SFL has grown into a renowned academic think tank with offices in Utrecht and Brussels. Our vision is to create an economic and financial system that is ecologically sustainable, socially responsible, and financially resilient. To that end, we produce high level research, engage with key public and private/corporate institutions nationally and internationally and organize events that constructively challenge the status quo. Our work aims to connect academic insights and vision with the reality of financial institutions, regulators and policymakers at the highest levels. The core team that you will be part of consists of ten passionate thinkers and doers. As head of research, you will be part of the leadership team.
Head of research
As Head of Research at SFL, you play a key role in shaping the organisation’s research agenda and ensuring high-quality outputs that challenge dominant economic and financial narratives. You lead research development and execution, foster connections across academia, policy, and NGOs, and navigate complex interdisciplinary topics. Additionally, you are responsible for maintaining quality assurance, securing funding for research initiatives, and driving discussions that influence policymakers and financial institutions. You will collaborate closely with leading Dutch and international economists, as well as other prominent scholars, to advance SFL’s mission. You will lead and develop the research team that currently consists of three full-time researchers and several independent researchers.
The ideal candidate:
- Is an economist by training with profound understanding of macroeconomics and the financial system and who preferably holds a relevant PhD.
- Has a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in academia, policy research, or financial institutions.
- Is an out-of-the-box strategic thinker with a systemic vision on the integration of social and ecological dimensions in economics and the financial system.
- Is prepared to explore unknown territory with the aim to drive impactful discussions on the highest level with a variety of stakeholders.
- Has excellent writing skills and experience in quality assurance for research in an academic or policy-oriented setting.
- Is sharp, independent, and able to show hands-on collaborative leadership.
- Is fluent in English and Dutch, with excellent communication skills.
What do we offer?
This position is classified at scale 12 of the Dutch Universities Collective Labor Agreement (CAO Nederlandse Universiteiten), the CLA that SFL largely follows. Starting levels are determined based on your experience. SFL offers an 8% holiday allowance, an 8.3% year-end bonus, 29 vacation days, a pension contribution, and an inspiring workspace in Utrecht East on the University College campus. We work flexibly, with at least two in-office days per week.
Ready to apply?
Make an impact! Send your application letter and CV by Friday 20 June 2025 to sustainablefinancelab@uu.nl. The first round of interviews will take place in the first week of July and the second round by the end of July. A written assignment between the two rounds is part of the selection process. Questions? Email us, and we’ll set up a meeting. We’re excited to get to know you.
Note: We cannot sponsor work permits for non-EU citizens. We can therefore only consider candidates who are EU nationals or already hold a valid Dutch work permit. Furthermore, unsolicited services or offers from recruitment agencies or intermediaries will not be responded to.
