PhD Candidate in Accounting

Welcome to Maastricht University!
The world is changing fast, and we’re changing with it. At UM, you make the difference— are you looking for a chance to shape the future of accounting research in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment? We would love to hear from you!
 

• Our goal: Advance cutting-edge research in accounting and strengthen our international reputation.
• Your colleagues: A collaborative team of researchers and PhD candidates within the Department of Accounting & Information Management.

PhD Candidate in Accounting

The School of Business and Economics is excited to announce an opportunity for a PhD candidate in Accounting! This position is open to all subdomains within accounting, i.e., auditing, financial accounting, and management accounting & control.

As a PhD candidate, you’ll develop research that matters. You’ll choose a topic within one of the relevant fields and design a project that reflects your interests and our research agenda.

You’ll join the Department of Accounting & Information Management—one of Europe’s leading departments in its field. Our PhD program is ranked #1 in Europe according to the BYU ranking. http://www.byuaccounting.net/rankings/phdrank/rank_phd_cnt.php?sortorder=ranking306&qurank=All

You’ll work in an environment that values curiosity and collaboration, with opportunities for both quantitative empirical studies and experimental research.

Ready to set the course for the years ahead? We’d love to meet you!

What you bring

It’s not about ticking boxes—it’s about your perspective, ideas, and drive. Does this sound like you?

• Academically grounded – Successful completion of a Master degree in Economics and Business Administration or similar studies. A research master would be an advantage but not a prerequisite.
• Analytical and curious – You have a sharp eye for detail and enjoy exploring complex questions.
• Strong in quantitative methods – You’re comfortable with data analysis and statistical techniques.

We encourage you to outline in your application letter in what way you have demonstrated the required skills.

What we offer
At Maastricht University, you’ll work in an international, open, and engaged environment. We offer:

• An 18-month contract with the prospect of extension to a total of 4 years based on mutual satisfaction.
• A gross monthly salary between €3.059,- and €3.881,- (based on full-time employment of 38 hours per week), plus 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus.
• 29 vacation days (based on full-time), four additional public holidays, and the option to accrue up to 12 extra days through compensation hours.
• Flexible working hours, a home office allowance, and hybrid working options.
• Freedom and space to shape your research independently and develop your ideas.
• A close-knit community of colleagues to collaborate and grow with.
• A solid pension plan via ABP, company fitness schemes, and access to various university sports facilities.
• An inspiring work environment in the heart of Europe.

Interested?
Want to know more about this position or what it’s like to do a PhD at UM? Contact Alexander Brüggen (Head of Department) at a.bruggen@maastrichtuniversity.nl. For questions about the application process, reach out to Laura (Recruiter) at laura.daniels@maastrichtuniversity.nl.

Ready to apply?
Upload your CV, motivation letter, and a letter of recommendation by 22 February 2026. First interviews will take place in early March 2026.

We look forward to getting to know you!

About the School of Business and Economics
The School of Business and Economics (SBE) is one of Maastricht University’s six faculties. Our mission is to contribute to a better world by addressing societal challenges, co-creating knowledge, and developing team players and leaders for the future.

SBE belongs to the top 1% of business schools worldwide with Triple Crown accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA). You’ll join an inspiring, international environment where learning and development are a priority.

The Department of Accounting & Information Management of the School of Business and Economics is committed to high quality research and education and provides a stimulating working environment. Research at the Department of Accounting and Information Management is consistently ranked as one of the best in its field in Europe. Faculty members publish in leading journals and the Department continues to benefit from the presence of distinguished visitors. The research interests of faculty members can be consulted on our website (https://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/research/department-accounting-and-information-management-aim) The Department’s PhD Program in Accounting / Information Management has a consistent track record of delivering high quality PhD graduates, as reflected in their placements and subsequent publications, and the accounting program is ranked #1 in Europe based on the all-time BYU ranking.

About Maastricht University
At Maastricht University, we collaboratively seek solutions to help move the world forward. We do this with 23,000 students and 5,000 employees across five regional locations, six faculties, and more than 70 research institutes. Here, you’ll have the space to push boundaries and discover new opportunities—for yourself and for the world around you. Together, we can find the answers for tomorrow.


Maastricht University is committed to promoting and nurturing a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that diversity in our staff and student population contributes to the quality of research and education at UM, and strive to enable this through inclusive policies and innovative projects led by teams of staff and students. We encourage you to apply for this position.