Fixed-term

Offer Description Peatland Ecology Group, Department of Ecosystem Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, CZECHIA https://www.prf.jcu.cz/en/peatlands We are seeking apostdoctoral researcherto join our Peatland Ecology Group to investigate plant–soil interactions and carbon and nutrient dynamics in peatland ecosystems, with a strong focus on FTIR spectroscopy and chemometrics. The tasks include the development and application of spectroscopy-based methods as alternatives to traditional chemical analyses, spectral data processing and multivariate analysis, spectral interpretation, chemometric model development (preferably using R and/or Python). Ability to work with large spectral datasets, including developing and managing spectral libraries or databases, is required. The position offers an excellent opportunity to work on interdisciplinary projects combining spectroscopy, environmental chemistry, ecology, and ecosystem modelling within an international research environment. We offer: A stimulating research position in a supportive and friendly team International collaboration, opportunities for research stays abroad, career development support Full-time contract for 18 months (possibility of extension) Starting monthly gross salary of 55 000 to 65 000 CZK, based on qualifications, skills and experience (allows for a comfortable standard of living in the České Budějovice region) Employee benefits, including 5 weeks of vacation, health insurance and pension contributions High quality of life in a safe country with low living costs and rich natural and cultural environment We require: PhD in organic or environmental chemistry, soil biology, ecology, biostatistics, or a related field Strong experience with spectroscopy data, chemometrics, multivariate modelling Ability to work with large spectral datasets, building and managing spectral libraries or databases Proficiency in R/Python (for statistical modeling, chemometric analysis, and reproducible research) Proactive and responsible approach, strong organizational skills, and ability to work in a team Excellent command of English (the working environment is international) Start: April 2026 (negotiable), for 1.5 years Application deadline: 28th February 2026 (applications are reviewed on a rolling basis) How to apply?     Please send an email toMgr. Petra Straková, D.Sc.: FTIR@post.cz and attach the single pdf including a motivation letter (~ 1 page), CV with a list of publications, and contact information for two references (one of them preferably a previous supervisor). If you are not fulfilling all the requirements but are enthusiastic to join us, please email us (FTIR@post.cz) and describe your situation in the cover letter. Do not hesitate to contact us with any further questions. Where to apply E-mail FTIR@post.cz

Offer Description POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP OPPORTUNITY MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship & EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship Metabolomic data analyst / Molecular Biologist (m/f/d) Laboratory of Cardiometabolism Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague About the Position We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher with strong experimental and omics data analysis expertise in metabolomics and transcriptomics to join our newly established Laboratory of Cardiometabolism. Our research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms driving sex differences in cardiac physiology that underlie pronounced sex biases in heart disease. We focus on biological sex—the combined effects of sex chromosomes and sex hormones—and how it shapes cardiac energy metabolism. The successful candidate will lead an independent experimental project investigating the molecular basis of sex-specific cardiometabolic regulation, with opportunities to work with human tissues, cell culture systems, and advanced genetically engineered mouse models. The selected candidate will be supported to apply for a Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA PF)and/or an EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship, with full institutional support for proposal preparation. Research Focus Our newly established lab is dedicated to uncovering the molecular basis of sex differences in cardiac metabolism and mitochondrial biology, both in health and disease. Our work focuses on the role of sex chromosomes, whose contribution remains largely unexplored – presenting exciting opportunities for novel scientific insights. To address this challenge, we take an integrative approach that combines systems biology, advanced omics technologies. More about our work: chmatallab.com,https://fgu.cas.cz/en/research-and-laboratories/research-departments/laboratory-of-cardiometabolism/ Key Responsibilities You will lead experimental research combining in vivo and in vitro models to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying sex differences in cardiometabolic regulation. Your work will involve genetically engineered mouse models, mitochondrial and metabolic analyses, cell culture systems, and integrative omics data analysis. You will have the autonomy to shape and lead your own research direction within the lab’s overarching vision. What We Are Looking For • PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, omics data analysis, or a related field • Hands-on experience with mouse models and cell culture • Solid molecular biology and computer programming skills • Excellent communication skills in English Additional experience in ChIP/epigenomics, NGS library preparation, or microscopy is a plus. What We Offer · A dynamic research environment at the Bio-Medical Campus, offering strong international and interdisciplinary collaborations · Work in a young, international team of experts in a completely renovated, state-of-the-art laboratory space (chmatallab.com) · Access to excellent infrastructure, including metabolomics, proteomics, metabolic cages, sequencing, and advanced imaging facilities · Scientific and strategic mentoring, including guidance in project management and individual consultations · Dedicated support for fellowship applications, with help on proposal structure, funding requirements, and feedback on key sections · Opportunities for independent project development, international conference attendance, and long-term career advancement · Competitive MSCA allowance or EMBO stipend upon successful external funding · Comprehensive employee benefits, including 5 weeks of vacation, Multisport/Edenred, on-site gym and squash court, parking, and access to an on-site kindergarten Eligibility MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship: PhD awarded by call deadline (September 2026); no more than 8 years of postdoctoral experience; must not have resided in Czech Republic for more than 12 months in the past 36 months. EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship: PhD awarded by application deadline; no more than 2 years of postdoctoral experience; must not have resided in Czech Republic for more than 12 months in the past 36 months. The position is contingent on successful fellowship award. Applicants of any nationality are welcome. Timeline Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The MSCA PF deadline is September 2026; EMBO Postdoctoral Fellowship deadlines are in January and July each year. Early contact is encouraged to allow time for joint proposal development. How to Apply Please send your CV (with publication list), a brief statement of research interests (max 2 pages), and contact details for 2–3 referees to personalni@fgu.cas.cz. Dr. Lukas Chmatal, Ph.D. Head, Laboratory of Cardiometabolism Institute of Physiology of the CAS, v.v.i. Vídeňská 1083, 142 00 Prague 4, Czech Republic Where to apply Website https://jobrxiv.org/job/postdoctoral-fellowship-metabolomic-data-analyst-molecu…

Offer Description Peatland Ecology Group, Department of Ecosystem Biology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, CZECHIA https://www.prf.jcu.cz/en/peatlands We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join our Peatland Ecology Group to investigate plant–soil interactions and carbon and nutrient dynamics in peatland ecosystems, with a strong focus on FTIR spectroscopy and chemometrics. The tasks include the development and application of spectroscopy-based methods as alternatives to traditional chemical analyses, spectral data processing and multivariate analysis, spectral interpretation, chemometric model development (preferably using R and/or Python). Ability to work with large spectral datasets, including developing and managing spectral libraries or databases, is required. The position offers an excellent opportunity to work on interdisciplinary projects combining spectroscopy, environmental chemistry, ecology, and ecosystem modelling within an international research environment. We offer: • A stimulating research position in a supportive and friendly team • International collaboration, opportunities for research stays abroad, career development support • Full-time contract for 18 months (possibility of extension) • Starting monthly gross salary of 55 000 to 65 000 CZK, based on qualifications, skills and experience (allows for a comfortable standard of living in the České Budějovice region) • Employee benefits, including 5 weeks of vacation, health insurance and pension contributions • High quality of life in a safe country with low living costs and rich natural and cultural environment We require: • PhD in organic or environmental chemistry, soil biology, ecology, biostatistics, or a related field • Strong experience with spectroscopy data, chemometrics, multivariate modelling • Ability to work with large spectral datasets, building and managing spectral libraries or databases • Proficiency in R/Python (for statistical modeling, chemometric analysis, and reproducible research) • Proactive and responsible approach, strong organizational skills, and ability to work in a team • Excellent command of English (the working environment is international) Start: April 2026 (negotiable), for 1.5 years Application deadline: 28th February 2026 (applications are reviewed on a rolling basis) How to apply? Please send an email to Mgr. Petra Straková, D.Sc.: FTIR@post.cz and attach the single pdf including a motivation letter (~ 1 page), CV with a list of publications, and contact information for two references (one of them preferably a previous supervisor). If you are not fulfilling all the requirements but are enthusiastic to join us, please email us (FTIR@post.cz) and describe your situation in the cover letter. Do not hesitate to contact us with any further questions. Where to apply Website https://jobrxiv.org/job/postdoc-in-plant-and-soil-spectroscopy-ftir/?utm_source…

Your job Do you want to contribute to the protein transition? Are you interested in understanding how novel protein crops can be (re)integrated into existing farming systems? Then this PhD position within the REAP2SOW programme might be for you! We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how current farming systems can be diversified with quinoa, white lupin and/or aardaker (Lathyrus tuberosus) as novel protein crops. The PhD position will focus on developing knowledge of cropping strategies that provide farmers with practical insights into integrating these protein crops into existing or novel rotations, thereby enhancing resilience and sustainability of biodiversity-positive farming systems. Field trials at research stations, and potentially on-farm, will generate actionable data to support farmers in making the transition towards more sustainable farming practices and in facilitating the wider adoption of these novel protein crops.  Your role Together with other project members, design and execute experiments on the agronomic performance and identification of biotic and/or abiotic production constraints of one or more of these protein crops. Interact with farmers to collect insights on current cropping systems and factors affecting the adoption of novel protein crops. Design diversified, protein-rich cropping systems that improve ecosystem services while minimizing negative impacts on biodiversity and the environment. Develop and parameterize a crop growth model for novel protein crops to predict yield. Write and publish your research in leading scientific journals and communicate your findings through your PhD thesis and broader societal outreach.  You will work here This research is embedded within three research groups: the Centre for Crop Systems Analysis (CSA), the Plant Production Systems Group (PPS) and the Biosystematics Group (BIS), with supervision by Prof. Jonne Rodenburg, Dr. Paul Ravensbergen, and Dr. Klaas Bouwmeester, respectively. The Centre for Crop Systems Analysis contributes to the improvement and innovation of crop production based on crop and weed ecological insights and at various levels of integration: from genotypes to cropping systems and agro-ecosystems. The Plant Production Systems Group combines production ecological theory with empirical knowledge to provide a better understanding of sustainability of farming systems around the world. The Biosystematics Group applies fundamental knowledge on evolution and biodiversity to improve crops and (agro-)ecosystems.  This NWA-funded PhD position is part of the REAP2SOW programme, a national collaboration between Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University, Leiden University, the University of Twente, and the University of Groningen, together with partners across the agri-food sector. REAP2SOW addresses the urgent challenge of transitioning to a sustainable, plant-based protein system by 2050, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and strengthen food security in the face of climate change and increasing weather extremes that affect ecosystem functioning. The programme brings together interdisciplinary expertise spanning natural, social, and technical sciences. Within REAP2SOW, our work package, comprising two PhD projects, will focus on designing resilient, sustainable and biodiversity-positive cropping systems for protein crops. This work package closely collaborates with other REAP2SOW WPs addressing soil health, plant physiology, and crop breeding, ensuring strong integration across disciplines and scales. The advertised position will adopt a ‘learning from farmers’ approach to explore how novel protein crops can effectively be integrated in existing crop production systems from an agronomic perspective. The second PhD position within this work package will focus on ‘learning from nature’. Together, these complementary perspectives will contribute to an integrated, system-level approach for developing future-proof protein cropping systems.  Your qualities You are a highly motivated candidate who enjoys the challenge of integrating novel protein crops in alternative cropping systems designs through agronomic field experiments and interactions with farmers.  You also possess:  A successfully completed MSc degree in plant sciences, plant biology, agronomy or related field. Ability to communicate scientifically as well as with non-scientific project stakeholders. Practical experience in agronomy or crop science, with a solid understanding of crop growth, production ecology and/or sustainable agro-biodiversity Enthusiasm for performing field work on-station and on-farm. Strong analytical and statistical skills; experience with crop modelling is an advantage. Affinity to work within a larger multi-disciplinary project, with strong project/time management skills. Proficiency in Dutch, and/or valid driving license (applicable in the Netherlands) can be an advantage. For this position your command of the English language is expected to be at C1 level. Sometimes it is necessary to submit an internationally recognized Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language. More information can be found here. We offer Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include: Partially paid parental leave; working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance; there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee; a fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%; excellent pension scheme. In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will receive a fully funded PhD position and you will be offered a course program tailored to your needs and the research team.The gross salary for the first year is € 3.059,- per month rising to € 3.881,-  in the fourth year in according to the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU) (scale P). This is based on a full-time working week of 38 hours. We offer a temporary contract for 18 months which will be extended for the duration of the project if you perform well.  Wageningen University & Research offers plenty of opportunities for growth and development, with a strong internal recruitment policy and excellent training programmes. You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment. For 20 consecutive years, we have been voted the “best university” in the Netherlands! A place to be proud of. Coming from abroad Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large international community and a lot to offer to international employees.  Because we expect you to work and live in the Netherlands our team of advisors on Dutch immigration procedures will help you with

Your job Do you want to help shape the future of sustainable protein crops in the Netherlands? Are you excited about combining plant physiology, genetics, and cutting-edge phenotyping to advance the protein transition? Then one of these two PhD positions within the REAP2SOW programme may be the perfect fit for you! We are looking for two motivated PhD candidates who will work together on understanding and improving emerging Dutch protein crops quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), white lupin (Lupinus albus), and the historic tuber crop aardaker (Lathyrus tuberosus). One PhD (PhD1) will focus on uncovering the fundamental biology, resilience, and genetic potential of aardaker, creating the foundations for its future use in Dutch food systems. The second PhD (PhD2) will concentrate on high-throughput phenotyping and bioinformatics across the three crops (with a focus on quinoa and lupin), linking genotype to phenotype to identify key traits for future-proof, climate-resilient crop ideotypes. Together, both positions contribute to designing the next generation of sustainable protein crops and advancing the national protein transition. Your duties and responsibilities include:  PhD1: Aardaker Physiology & Genetics Design and conduct experiments to investigate aardaker growth, development, and environmental responses under controlled and field conditions. Develop speed-breeding protocols and plant resilience assays, and collaborate with soil, drought, and food-quality teams to assess performance and (anti)nutritional factors. Generate and analyse genetic resources (e.g multiparent mapping population) to dissect the genetic architecture of key traits. Gather and integrate physiological measurements with -omics datasets using quantitative and bioinformatic approaches, and contribute to joint trait-mapping efforts. Publish your findings in scientific journals, collaborate across REAP2SOW, and communicate your results in your PhD thesis and broader outreach activities. PhD2 – Phenotyping, Bioinformatics & Ideotype Design Design and implement high-throughput phenotyping pipelines (above- and below-ground) to quantify vigor, nutrient use, and stress responses in quinoa, white lupin, that could be implemented in aardaker. Combine greenhouse, growth chamber, and field measurements to identify traits underpinning early establishment, nutrient acquisition, and productivity. Perform genetic association analyses to link phenotypic variation with genomic diversity. Work closely with drought, photosynthesis, and field teams to identify scalable proxy traits and integrate multi-environment phenotyping datasets. Publish your findings in scientific journals, collaborate across REAP2SOW, and communicate your results in your PhD thesis and broader outreach activities. You will work here The research is embedded within the Wageningen University Department of Plant Breeding (WU-PBR) with collaboration from Maastricht University chair of Plant Functional Genomics (UM-PFG), Wageningen Plant Research (WPR), and the Wageningen University Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology (WU-CDB). Supervision of PhD1 will led by Dr. Chris Maliepaard (WU-PBR), Dr. Peter Bourke (WU-PBR), and Dr. Andries Temme (WPR). Supervision of Phd2 will be led by by Prof. Luisa Trindade (WU-PBR), Prof. Wim Vriezen (UM-PFG), Dr. Wouter Kohlen (WU-CDB, and Dr. Andries Temme (WPR). These NWA-funded PhD positions are part of the REAP2SOW programme, a national collaboration between Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University, Leiden University, the University of Twente, and the University of Groningen, together with partners across the agri-food sector. REAP2SOW addresses the urgent challenge of transitioning to a sustainable, plant-based protein system by 2050, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and strengthen food security in the face of climate change and increasing weather extremes that affect ecosystem functioning. The programme brings together interdisciplinary expertise spanning natural, social, and technical sciences. Within REAP2SOW, our work package focuses on the genetic and physiological foundations of three emerging Dutch protein crops, quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker. It aims to identify the heritable traits and genomic factors that drive early vigor, tuber formation, nutrient acquisition, resilience to abiotic stress, and protein quality. The work integrates controlled-environment experiments with high-throughput phenotyping, and a variety of genomic resources to dissect the genetic architecture of performance and (anti)nutritional traits. By linking genotype to phenotype, our work package provides the trait insights and genetic understanding needed to guide crop improvement, support breeding strategies, and design resilient ideotypes for future Dutch protein landscapes. Your qualities You are an enthusiastic, curious, and independent researcher who enjoys combining experimental work with data analysis. You are motivated to contribute to sustainable agriculture and the future Dutch protein landscape, and you enjoy working in an interdisciplinary team that spans physiology, quantitative genetics, phenotyping, bioinformatics, and food-quality research. You have strong analytical skills, good communication abilities, and you are comfortable collaborating across research groups and research environments (lab, greenhouse, field). You are eager to learn new techniques, whether in plant physiology, genomics, or high-throughput phenotyping, and you enjoy connecting detailed trait measurements to the bigger picture of crop improvement. You also possess: A successfully completed MSc degree in plant sciences, biology, agriculture, genetics, bioinformatics, or a related field. Demonstrated experience working with plants, ideally including growth experiments, phenotyping, or physiological measurements. Skills in performing quantitative data analyses and the ability (or willingness) to work with –omics or high-dimensional datasets. Affinity with genetics, genomics, or trait mapping, and interest in linking genotype to phenotype. Strong collaborative attitude and good organizational skills to coordinate experiments across teams and research facilities. For this position your command of the English language is expected to be at C1. Sometimes it is necessary to submit an internationally recognised Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language. More information can be found here. We offer Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include: Partially paid parental leave; working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance; there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee; a fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%; excellent pension scheme. In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will receive a fully funded PhD position and you will be offered a course program tailored to your needs and the research team.The gross salary for the first year is € 3.059,- per month rising to € 3.881,-  in the fourth year in according to the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch

Your job Do you want to contribute to the protein transition? Are you interested in understanding how novel protein crops respond to abiotic stress? Then one of these 2 PhD positions within the REAP2SOW programme might be suited for you! We are looking for two enthusiastic and motivated PhD candidates to study (PhD1) abiotic signals that regulate below‑ground development and (PhD2) above-ground responses of to stress and source–sink relationships of three novel protein crops — quinoa, white lupin and tuberous pea (a.k.a. aardaker, Lathyrus tuberosus). The research will focus on how temperature and water stress affect nitrogen acquisition, photosynthesis, root development and the allocation of carbon and nitrogen between source and sink tissues.  Your role PhD1: Together with other project members you will design and execute controlled-environment experiments, including targeted phenotyping of roots, nodules, and tubers, using reference genotypes and by manipulating abiotic factors (e.g. temperature, water, N). You will conduct molecular and cellular analyses using histology, microscopy, single-cell and bulk transcriptomics, mutant screens and transformation approaches to identify signalling pathways and regulatory components. You will analyze data and integrate multi-modal datasets by applying quantitative/statistical and bioinformatics skills. You will coordinate collaboration by managing cross-team experiments. You will write and publish your research in leading scientific journals and communicate your findings through your PhD thesis and via broader societal outreach.  PhD2: Together with other project members you will design and execute controlled-environment experiments using reference genotypes and by manipulating abiotic factors (e.g. temperature, water, N). You will collect physiological and whole-plant measurements including gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, optical spectroscopy, and stable isotope labelling to quantify C and N fixation, uptake, and allocation. You will analyze data and integrate multi-modal datasets by applying quantitative/statistical skills. You will coordinate collaboration by managing cross-team experiments. You will write and publish your research in leading scientific journals and communicate your findings through your PhD thesis and via broader societal outreach.  You will work here This research is embedded within four research groups, at Wageningen University and Utrecht University: the Centre for Crop Systems Analysis (WU-CSA), the Laboratory of Cell and Developmental Biology (WU-CDB), the Plant Stress Resilience research group (PSR-UU) and the Experimental and Computational Plant Development research group (ECPD-UU). Supervision will be by Prof. Jochem Evers (WU-CSA), Dr. Steven Driever (WU-CSA), Prof. Viola Willemsen (WU-CDB), Dr. Wouter Kohlen (WU-CDB), Dr. Martijn van Zanten (PSR-UU) and Dr. Kaisa Kajala (ECPD-UU).  These NWA-funded PhD positions are part of the REAP2SOW programme, a national collaboration between Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University, Leiden University, the University of Twente, and the University of Groningen, together with partners across the agri-food sector. REAP2SOW addresses the urgent challenge of transitioning to a sustainable, plant-based protein system by 2050, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and strengthen food security in the face of climate change and increasing weather extremes that affect ecosystem functioning. The programme brings together interdisciplinary expertise spanning natural, social, and technical sciences. Within REAP2SOW, our work package investigates below-ground development, nitrogen acquisition, and above-ground carbon fixation in quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker, focusing on root traits, nodules, and tuber development to assess nutrient-use efficiency. It tests how abiotic stresses—especially high temperature and fluctuating water availability—affect photosynthesis, nitrogen uptake, and carbon–nitrogen allocation using advanced tools such as single-cell transcriptomics, root imaging, isotope tracing, gas-exchange, and leaf spectroscopy. The projects aim to uncover physiological processes,  signalling pathways and traits that improve crop resilience. This work package closely collaborates with other REAP2SOW WPs addressing nutrient efficiency, and nutritional quality to guide genotype selection under stress. Your qualities You are a highly motivated candidate who enjoys the challenge of investigating the underlying physiology and stress response of novel protein crops.  You also possess:  A successfully completed MSc degree in plant sciences, plant (molecular) biology, or related field. Experience in one or more of the following: (PhD 1 and 2) (molecular) plant physiology, the field of plant stress resilience, executing controlled-environment growth experiments. Skills or experience in one or more of the following are an advantage: (PhD1) molecular biology, transcriptomics, quantitative data analysis, bioinformatics, mutant screens and plant transformation, microscopy; (PhD2) physiological measurements (e.g. gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, optical spectroscopy), stable isotope labelling. Affinity to work within a larger multi-disciplinary project, with strong teamwork/project-management skills needed for cross-institutional collaboration. For this position your command of the English language is expected to be at C1 level. Sometimes it is necessary to submit an internationally recognised Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language. More information can be found here. We offer Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include: Partially paid parental leave; working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance; there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee; a fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%; excellent pension scheme. In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will receive a fully funded PhD position and you will be offered a course program tailored to your needs and the research team.The gross salary for the first year is € 3.059,- per month rising to € 3.881,-  in the fourth year in according to the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU) (scale P). This is based on a full-time working week of 38 hours. We offer a temporary contract for 18 months which will be extended for the duration of the project if you perform well.  Wageningen University & Research offers plenty of opportunities for growth and development, with a strong internal recruitment policy and excellent training programmes. You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment. For 20 consecutive years, we have been voted the “best university” in the Netherlands! A place to be proud of. Coming from abroad Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large

Your job We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to investigate how quinoa, white lupin and/or aardaker (Lathyrus tuberosus) contribute to ecosystem services in cropping systems. The PhD position will focus on generating knowledge on the ecological functions of these novel protein crops and understanding plant biotic interactions that underlie sustainable and biodiversity-positive cropping systems. Field trials at research stations, and potentially on-farm, will generate actionable data to support farmers in making the transition towards more sustainable farming practices and in facilitating the wider adoption of these novel protein crops. Your role Conduct field experiments and biodiversity monitoring to study how quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker influence above- and belowground biotic communities and ecosystem services. Investigate plant-plant interactions in natural and agro-ecosystems to gain insights into communal dynamics, companion effects, and evolutionary strategies. Engage with farmers to understand current cropping systems and factors influencing the adoption of novel protein crops. Identify ecological patterns and companion crops that support ecosystem services such as disease suppression, soil health, and nutrient cycling. Write and publish your research in leading scientific journals and communicate your findings through your PhD thesis and broader societal outreach. You will work here This research is embedded within three research groups: the Biosystematics Group (BIS), the Centre for Crop Systems Analysis (CSA), and the Plant Production Systems Group (PPS) with supervision by Dr. Casper Quist/Dr. Klaas Bouwmeester, Prof. Jonne Rodenburg, Dr. Paul Ravensbergen, respectively. The Biosystematics Group applies evolutionary and biodiversity knowledge to enhance crops and (agro-)ecosystems through comparative biology approaches. The Centre for Crop Systems Analysis contributes to the improvement and innovation of crop production by integrating ecological understanding of crops and weeds across multiple levels. The Plant Production Systems Group combines production ecological theory with empirical knowledge to provide a better understanding of sustainability of farming systems around the world. This NWA-funded PhD position is part of the REAP2SOW programme, a national collaboration between Wageningen University & Research, Utrecht University, Leiden University, the University of Twente, and the University of Groningen, together with partners across the agri-food sector. REAP2SOW addresses the urgent challenge of transitioning to a sustainable, plant-based protein system by 2050, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture and strengthen food security in the face of climate change and increasing weather extremes that affect ecosystem functioning. The programme brings together interdisciplinary expertise spanning natural, social, and technical sciences. Within REAP2SOW, our work package, comprising two PhD projects, will focus on designing resilient, sustainable and biodiversity-positive cropping systems for protein crops. This work package closely collaborates with other REAP2SOW WPs addressing soil health, plant physiology, and crop breeding, ensuring strong integration across disciplines and scales. The advertised position will adopt a “learning from nature” approach to explore how novel protein crops and their close relatives interact with neighbouring plants and the wider ecosystem, translating these insights into biodiversity-positive cropping strategies. The second PhD position within this work package will focus on ‘learning from farmers’. Together, these complementary perspectives will contribute to an integrated, system-level approach for developing future-proof protein cropping systems. Your qualities You are a highly motivated candidate who is eager to explore how novel protein crops can contribute to biodiversity-positive and resilient farming systems You also possess:  A successfully completed MSc degree in plant sciences, plant biology, agroecology or related field. Strong interest in plant-environment interactions, ecosystem services, and the ecological roles of crops in diversified farming systems. Practical experience in field experiments or ecological assessments, with affinity for plant diversity, field botany, and ecological observation. Ability to communicate scientifically as well as with non-scientific project stakeholders. Enthusiasm for performing field work on-station and on-farm. Strong analytical and statistical skills; experience with ecological data analysis or ecological network modelling is an advantage. Affinity to work within a larger multi-disciplinary project, with strong project/time management skills. Proficiency in Dutch, and/or valid driving license (applicable in the Netherlands) can be an advantage. For this position your command of the English language is expected to be at C1 level. Sometimes it is necessary to submit an internationally recognized Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language. More information can be found here. We offer Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include: Partially paid parental leave; working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance; there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee; a fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%; excellent pension scheme. In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will receive a fully funded PhD position and you will be offered a course program tailored to your needs and the research team. The gross salary for the first year is € 3.059,- per month rising to € 3.881,-  in the fourth year in according to the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU) (scale P). This is based on a full-time working week of 38 hours. We offer a temporary contract for 18 months which will be extended for the duration of the project if you perform well. Wageningen University & Research offers plenty of opportunities for growth and development, with a strong internal recruitment policy and excellent training programmes. You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment. For 20 consecutive years, we have been voted the “best university” in the Netherlands! A place to be proud of. Coming from abroad Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large international community and a lot to offer to international employees. Because we expect you to work and live in the Netherlands our team of advisors on Dutch immigration procedures will help you with the visa application procedures for yourself and, if applicable, for your family. Feeling welcome also has everything to do with being well informed. We can assist you with any additional advice