PNN Vacancy: General Board Member - External Commissioner

Are you passionate about the position of PhD candidates in the Netherlands? Do you want to make an impact at a national level and collaborate with enthusiastic PhD candidates from across the country? Then this position is for you!

As of September 2026, the PhD Candidates Network Netherlands (PNN) is seeking to strengthen its team with a general board member for the portfolio of External Commissioner. 

‍

Highlights

• Play an essential role in connecting PNN to the 40,000 PhD candidates in the Netherlands.
• Be in charge of managing PNNs communication channels, such as the newsletter, social media and the website. 
• Help coordinate and write opinion pieces and press releases for PNN.
• Join our national board with committed and ambitious board members.
• Expand your network and develop valuable skills for your future career.
• Flexible board work alongside your PhD program, with time-for-time compensation (in consultation).

‍

What will be your role?

As the External Commissioner, you are well-informed about everything happening inside and outside the PNN board. Keeping up with current events is essential, as you manage social media, the newsletter, and the website. You will think about how we can inform PhD candidates about matters that are important to them. In this way, you play a key role in representing PNN to the outside world. Furthermore, you are in contact with current sponsors and explore new opportunities to secure funding for PNN. 

‍

Who are we looking for?

• You are currently pursuing a PhD (as an employee, grant-based PhD, or external PhD) at a Dutch university, UMC, or research institution.
• You are enthusiastic about PNN and eager to gain (additional) board experience.
• You enjoy working with others, can inspire and connect people, and are able to act proactively and independently.
• You have vision and drive and can translate these into policy.
• You possess the ability to think analytically, both within the board and the association, as well as in dealings with (partner) organizations and sponsors/funders.
• You are willing to dedicate an average of 8-12 hours per week to PNN for at least 1 year. If you have busy research or teaching periods, this time commitment can be adjusted in consultation: your dissertation always comes first.
• You are available at least one evening per month for a board meeting in Utrecht or Amsterdam.
• You enjoy writing for social media, newsletters, op-eds, and press releases.
• Beneficial, but not required: experience with website content management.

‍

What do we offer?

• At least one year of working in a passionate and motivated team of fellow board members from across the Netherlands.
• Many opportunities for your own initiatives and the development of new skills.
• The chance to expand your network.
• The pleasure and satisfaction of contributing to policy development and working towards a better environment for PhD candidates in the Netherlands.
• Reimbursement for travel expenses incurred due to your board role.
• Potential compensation in time, in the form of an extension of your PhD trajectory. For external candidates, monetary compensation can be arranged.

‍

About PNN

The Promovendi Netwerk Nederland (PNN) is the national organization representing the interests of PhD candidates across the Netherlands. PNN is dedicated to promoting the rights and interests of PhD candidates in various areas, such as working conditions, professional development, and improving the PhD trajectory. Additionally, PNN advocates for inclusive and open science, where PhD researchers are given the space to develop their talents and focus on building a sustainable academic career. PNN collaborates closely with branch organizations, research institutions, and policymakers to enhance the PhD environment. It also organizes events and provides a platform for PhD candidates to share knowledge and experiences. At our quarterly general assemblies, representatives from local PhD organizations at all Dutch universities and UMCs come together to discuss key issues.

‍

Enthusiastic?

Questions or interest? Don’t hesitate to contact us! For questions about PNN and the role, you can reach out to Andrew Elrod (commissarisextern@hetpnn.nl). 

If interested, this board position can be combined with the position of Treasurer/Board Member for Finance & Organizational Development.

You can apply until May 22, 2026, by sending your cover letter and CV to Maartje Zweers (Vice-Chair/Secretary, secretaris@hetpnn.nl). The job interviews will take place online on June 1 and 3. Between mid-June and early September, you will be onboarded for this position at a relaxed pace, taking into account holidays and other commitments. From early September, you will take over the duties of the current portfolio holder. The official installation will take place on Friday, September 25, during the General Meeting.