PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School
The PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School is now open for applications, offering an exceptional opportunity for qualified candidates to pursue advanced research in sustainability, responsible business, and governance. Hosted by the Department of Management, Society and Communication (MSC), this fully funded PhD programme is designed for scholars interested in understanding the complex relationship between business and society in a global context.
The application deadline is 15 February 2026, with an expected start date of 1 September 2026.
About the PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School
The PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School focuses on exploring sustainability and sustainable development through the roles of business, government, consumers, and civil society. Research themes may include sustainability in business and finance, governance, labour markets, consumer behaviour, civil society engagement, and even the growing backlash against sustainability initiatives.
Applicants may focus on issues in the Global North or Global South, addressing both environmental and social dimensions of sustainability. While suggested focus areas are provided, the department also welcomes innovative proposals aligned with the broader sustainability theme.
Department of Management, Society and Communication (MSC)
The PhD position is hosted within the Department of Management, Society and Communication (MSC) at Copenhagen Business School. MSC is known for its multidisciplinary research on the interaction between business and society, with strong emphasis on responsible management, governance, culture, communication, and global context.
Centre for Sustainability
Successful candidates of the PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School will become members of the Centre for Sustainability. Applicants must clearly explain how their proposed research contributes to this research environment and aligns with its academic goals.
About the CBS PhD Programme
The three-year PhD programme at Copenhagen Business School offers structured supervision by experienced professors and associate professors. PhD students participate in research-based courses, attend international conferences, and complete a research stay at another international institution.
Graduates of the PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School are highly regarded in academia, government institutions, NGOs, and the private sector, reflecting the programme’s strong reputation and relevance.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for the PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A completed master’s degree (3+2 Bologna process)
- A minimum grade of 10 (or equivalent) for the master’s thesis
- A weighted GPA of at least 8.2 (Bachelor’s + Master’s) or 9.5 (Master’s only) on the Danish 7-point scale
- Alternatively, proof of being in the top 40% of the class
- Relevant educational background in the social sciences
- Completion of the master’s degree before the application deadline
- High-level academic English writing and speaking skills
In rare cases, grade requirements may be waived.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a five-page PhD project description, including:
- An original and clearly defined research question
- Initial theoretical framework and methodology
- Proposed empirical material
- A structured three-year work plan
Additional required documents include:
- Bachelor’s and master’s degree certificates and transcripts
- GPA or top 40% documentation (if applicable)
- A concise academic CV
- List of publications (if applicable)
- One selected written work (e.g. master’s thesis)
Employment, Salary, and Benefits
The PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School is a fully salaried position lasting three years. The role includes teaching obligations equivalent to 416 hours.
- Monthly salary: Approx. DKK 29,691 – DKK 36,180
- Pension contribution: 18.07%
- Tuition fees covered
- Office space, course fees, and travel funding included
Employment follows the Danish national collective agreement with the Ministry of Finance.
Recruitment Process and How to Apply
The recruitment process includes shortlisting, academic assessment, and interviews. Applicants will be notified at each stage.
To apply for the PhD Scholarship in Sustainability at Copenhagen Business School, submit your application via the official portal:
All application materials must be submitted before 15 February 2026.