Job Zomerplaag (J.B.)

Job Zomerplaag is a PhD researcher and programme editor affiliated with Studio Europa Maastricht (SEM), Maastricht University (UM), and United Nations University-MERIT (UNU-MERIT). He works at the intersection of Europe, sustainability, and citizenship.

In his doctoral research, When Transitions Hit Home, Job examines the impact of the energy transition on the daily lives of citizens. He focuses on the growing responsibility that households bear for making their homes and neighborhoods more sustainable, while studying how past policy choices and experiences from previous energy transitions shape today’s challenges. Additionally, he explores how governments can collaborate with residents to make the energy transition more inclusive and just. His research is supervised by Prof. Dr. René Kemp and Prof. Dr. Mathieu Segers, and has continued under the guidance of Dr. Maja Ročak following Segers’ passing in December 2023.

In addition to his research, Job supports Studio Europa Maastricht's mission by deepening public debate on Europe’s future. As their programme editor, he translates academic insights and societal discussions into public programs and media productions, facilitating dialogue among diverse groups.

Before starting his PhD, Job worked as a journalist and communications strategist. He is frequently invited to serve as a moderator and chair for events and enjoys sharing his insights on urban development and citizen participation with a broad audience.

Job holds multidisciplinary master's degrees in public policy and urban studies. As an undergraduate, he studied communication sciences and urban geography. In 2021, he was awarded the Kremers Incentive Prize for his research on citizen participation in urban renewal projects.

Job grew up near Maastricht but has also lived, studied and worked in various European cities such as Rotterdam, Utrecht, Brussels, Vienna, Copenhagen and Madrid.

In the spring of 2025, he will be a visiting researcher ('Urban Futures Fellow') at the University of Vienna.