Position for a Research Fellow in Bhutan working on a prestigious EU research grant awarded to P2P LAB in collaboration with the Institute of Happiness, Bhutan (www.iohbhutan.org).

The Ragnar Nurkse School of Innovation and Governance, TalTech (Tallinn University of Technology), Estonia, is offering a research fellowship in the scope of the ERC Starting Grant “COSMOLOCALISM – Design Global, Manufacture Local” (http://www.cosmolocalism.eu) led by Prof. Vasilis Kostakis.

The successful applicant is expected to work closely with the members project, as well as individually and in collaboration with the Institute of Happiness (https://www.iohbhutan.org) in the country of Bhutan. The applicant will be part of a multidisciplinary research team, have access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, and enjoy collaboration opportunities with the project’s international academic and activist partners.

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

COSMOLOCALISM will document, analyze, test, evaluate, and create awareness about an emerging mode of production, based on the confluence of the digital commons (e.g., open knowledge and design) with local manufacturing and automation technologies (from 3D printing and CNC machines to low-tech tools and crafts). This convergence could catalyze the transition to new inclusive and circular production models, such as the “design global, manufacture local” (DGML) model.

DGML describes the processes through which design is developed as a global digital commons, whereas the manufacturing takes place locally, through shared infrastructures and with local biophysical conditions in check. COSMOLOCALISM is a pilot-driven investigation of the DGML phenomenon that seeks to understand relevant organizational models, their evolution, and their broader political economy/ecology and policy implications. Through the lens of diverse case studies and participatory action research, the conditions under which the DGML model thrives will be explored.

COSMOLOCALISM has three concurrent streams: democratization; innovation; and sustainability. First, DGML governance practices will be studied, patterns will be recognized, and their form, function, cultural values, and structure will be determined. Second, the relevant open innovation ecosystems and their potential to reorient design and manufacturing practices will be examined. Third, selected DGML products will be evaluated from an environmental sustainability perspective, involving both qualitative and quantitative methods. The interdisciplinary nature of COSMOLOCALISM will explore new horizons to substantively improve our understanding of how to create sustainable economies through the commons.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

The candidate is expected to coordinate a pilot in the country of Bhutan, so familiarity with the country’s culture and relevant languages is obligatory. They should hold a Master degree preferably in political economy, technology studies, political ecology, participatory research, management studies, or related fields. A research focus on the commons through the lens of the aforementioned, as well as related activist engagement, is considered ideal. Technical skills with regards to fabricating will also be positively evaluated. In exceptional cases, Master students will be considered. Feel free to contact Prof. Vasilis Kostakis: vasileios.kostakis@taltech.ee and hello@iohbhutan.org

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Coordination of a DGML pilot in the country of Bhutan. This includes design and execution of experimental fabrication in collaboration with the local community, and key involvement in the respective scientific publications and reports. The fellow will report to Professor Vasillis Kostakis of P2P Lab and Mr.Kinga Tshering of IOH on a regular basis.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The successful candidate will receive a one-year contract, renewable for two years and six months  after positive evaluation (so 3,5 years in total). Depending on qualifications and previous experience, the salary will range between 1,000 to 1,300 euros per month (before taxes). The position is suitable for PhD students within the Bhutanese university system or – should class and residency requirements have been completed – even outside of it. Alternatively, the fellowship may also lead to a PhD from TalTech, for which however a separate admissions process and some longer residency in Estonia would be required.

Apply now with:

1.       Resume (2 page limit)

2.       Citizenship ID Card Copy

3.       University grades and diploma (Copy)

4.       500 word personal statement on why you want this position.

5.       Three letters of recommendations.

6.       Deadline : 30th November, 2018.

7.       Apply to : vasileios.kostakis@taltech.ee and hello@iohbhutan.org

8.       Interview Date: December, 2018. Venue: IOH Office, Hotel Thimphu Towers Building.