alchemia-nova research & innovation (ANRI) is an independent, non-profit applied research organization focusing on regenerative and nature-based solutions. The interdisciplinary and international team conducts research, innovation, consulting, and training in the fields of circular economy, bioeconomy, and climate change adaptation.
Research project:
The thesis will contribute to the EU-funded SYMBIO project (Horizon Europe, Grant Agreement No. 101135166), which aims to foster industrial symbiosis in the European bioeconomy by identifying and supporting circular, bio-based business models across twelve pilot regions. Within Work Package 3, ANRI leads the analytical and methodological work for assessing and supporting the implementation of promising circular bio-based solutions. The next phase of this work focuses on the policy and regulatory landscape that shapes the implementation of industrial symbiosis in the bioeconomy.
Master thesis:
The objective of the thesis is to analyze and evaluate EU and national policy frameworks relevant to circular, bio-based business models identified in the project, focusing on how legal, institutional, and financial instruments facilitate or hinder their implementation.
Key topics include:
- Analysis of EU directives and strategies (e.g. Waste Framework Directive, updated Bioeconomy Strategy 2025, Green Deal initiatives)
- Review of national and regional policy implementation mechanisms
Identification of regulatory bottlenecks and enabling instruments
Designing, implementing, and analysing an online policy survey targeting policy experts from six SYMBIO countries and the EU level. - Integration of results from regional focus group workshops and policy expert surveys
- Development of targeted policy recommendations for enhancing industrial symbiosis in Europe
- Development of targeted policy recommendations for enhancing industrial symbiosis in Europe
Tasks within the master thesis
- Conducting literature and policy document reviews on relevant EU and national frameworks.
- Mapping and categorizing regulatory barriers and enabling instruments.
- Analysing case studies of bio-based value chains from SYMBIO pilot regions.
- Data collection from expert interviews, workshops, and surveys.
- Contributing to the synthesis of findings and drafting concise policy recommendations.
Requirements
- Strong interest in EU policy analysis and circular economy.
- Educational background in environmental sciences, bioeconomy, political science, European studies, or related fields.
- Independent, analytical, and well-structured working style.
- Very good command of English (project working language).
- Familiarity with EU policy processes and circular economy concepts is an asset.
What we offer:
- A chance to contribute to a Horizon Europe project with direct policy relevance.
- Guidance from experienced researchers and access to an international network.
- Integration in an interdisciplinary, collaborative research environment.
- Flexible working arrangements (time and location).
- Duration: approximately 4-6 months, starting January 2026.
- A nominal compensation of € 750 for the research contribution.
For more information and to apply, please contact:
tamara.vobruba@alchemia-nova.eu & antonia.zerobin@alchemia-nova.eu
We look forward to hearing from you, working together on this exciting topic, and supporting you throughout your master’s thesis journey!