You will work on your own research project as part of the research team ‘Concrete Colonialism: Architecture and Heritage in Indonesia around Independence’. The research team uses a material lens to examine the built environment and heritage formation before, during, and after the transition to independence in Indonesia. The team sets out to examine the local and transregional networks of fabrication, production, distribution, use and decay of building materials, with a specific focus on concrete.

The PhD project can take different approaches, including (but not limited to):

• A material lens: examining the manufacturing and distribution of concrete, for example by the Nederlands-Indische Portland Cement Maatschappij. Another focus could be the perception of concrete in relation to colonialism and independence, possibly in relation to other building materials.
• A network analysis: researching the activities of, for example, one or more building companies, such as the Hollandse Beton Maatschappij active in Indonesia. This approach may involve the use of digital mapping technologies, such as GIS.
• A comparative lens: investigating local, regional or transnational exchanges building materials, knowledge of building construction or/and labour through a comparative study.

The research team is looking for an enthusiastic researcher who is willing to collaborate as part of a research team and is capable of working independently. Experience in conducting archival research and/or fieldwork is desirable. Knowledge of Bahasa Indonesia, or willingness to learn Bahasa Indonesia is also desirable.

The deadline for applications is 15 October 2024.