Wageningen University & Research is offering a fully funded PhD position within the REAP2SOW project, focusing on biodiversity-positive cropping systems for protein crops such as quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker (Lathyrus tuberosus). The research aims to investigate the ecological functions of these novel protein crops, their plant-plant and plant-biotic interactions, and their contributions to ecosystem services in sustainable agriculture. The project will involve field experiments and biodiversity monitoring to study how these crops influence biotic communities and ecosystem services, as well as engagement with farmers to understand current cropping systems and adoption factors. The PhD candidate will be supervised by Dr. Klaas Bouwmeester, Dr. Casper Quist, and Prof. Jonne Rodenburg, and will work within three research groups: the Biosystematics Group, the Centre for Crop Systems Analysis, and the Plant Production Systems Group. The research is part of a national collaboration with Utrecht University, Leiden University, University of Twente, and University of Groningen, as well as partners in the agri-food sector. The REAP2SOW programme addresses the transition to a sustainable, plant-based protein system by 2050, aiming to reduce agriculture's environmental impact and strengthen food security. Applicants should have a completed MSc in plant sciences, plant biology, agroecology, or a related field, with strong interest and experience in plant-environment interactions, field experiments, and ecological data analysis. Proficiency in English at C1 level is required. The position offers a gross salary from €3,059 to €3,881 per month, a temporary contract for 18 months (extendable), and excellent employment benefits including a year-end bonus, pension scheme, and support for international staff. The application deadline is 23 February 2026. For more information, contact Dr. Casper Quist at [email protected].

Wageningen University & Research is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on designing cropping systems with novel protein crops, including quinoa, lupin, and aardaker, as part of the REAP2SOW programme. The research aims to diversify current farming systems by integrating these protein crops, enhancing resilience and sustainability in biodiversity-positive agriculture. The successful candidate will design and execute field experiments, interact with farmers, and develop crop growth models to predict yields and support the adoption of sustainable practices. This interdisciplinary project is embedded within the Centre for Crop Systems Analysis, the Plant Production Systems Group, and the Biosystematics Group, with supervision by Prof. Jonne Rodenburg, Dr. Paul Ravensbergen, and Dr. Klaas Bouwmeester. The research will generate actionable data for farmers and contribute to the transition towards a sustainable, plant-based protein system in the Netherlands. The work package collaborates closely with other REAP2SOW teams addressing soil health, plant physiology, and crop breeding. Applicants should hold an MSc in plant sciences, plant biology, agronomy, or a related field, with practical experience in agronomy or crop science, strong analytical and statistical skills, and preferably experience with crop modelling. Proficiency in English at C1 level is required; Dutch language skills and a valid driving license are advantages. The position offers a gross salary starting at €3,059 per month, rising to €3,881, with excellent employment benefits and support for international staff. Applications must be submitted via the Wageningen University & Research website by 23 February 2026. Required documents include a CV and motivation letter (max 3 pages total). For more information, contact Prof. Jonne Rodenburg at [email protected].

Wageningen University & Research, in collaboration with Utrecht University, Leiden University, Maastricht University, University of Groningen, and University of Twente, is offering several fully funded PhD positions within the REAP2SOW programme. These positions focus on advancing sustainable protein crops through research in plant physiology, genetics, phenotyping, and biodiversity-positive cropping systems. The programme aims to address the urgent challenge of transitioning to a sustainable, plant-based protein system by 2050, reducing agriculture's environmental impact and strengthening food security in the face of climate change. PhD projects are available in the following areas: Plant Stress Physiology, Nitrogen, and Photosynthesis: Investigate how novel protein crops such as quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker respond to abiotic stress, focusing on nitrogen acquisition, photosynthesis, root development, and carbon-nitrogen allocation. Research involves controlled-environment experiments, molecular and cellular analyses, and advanced bioinformatics. Crop Genetics and Phenotyping: Study the genetic architecture and phenotypic traits of emerging protein crops. Projects include high-throughput phenotyping, bioinformatics, and trait mapping to support breeding strategies for climate-resilient crops. Biodiversity-Positive Cropping Systems: Explore how protein crops contribute to ecosystem services and biodiversity in agricultural systems. Research includes field trials, biodiversity monitoring, and engagement with farmers to develop sustainable cropping strategies. Supervision is provided by a multidisciplinary team of leading academics, including Prof. Jochem Evers, Dr. Steven Driever, Prof. Viola Willemsen, Dr. Wouter Kohlen, Dr. Martijn van Zanten, Dr. Kaisa Kajala, Dr. Chris Maliepaard, Dr. Peter Bourke, Dr. Andries Temme, Prof. Luisa Trindade, Prof. Wim Vriezen, Dr. Casper Quist, Dr. Klaas Bouwmeester, Prof. Jonne Rodenburg, and Dr. Paul Ravensbergen. The research is embedded in renowned groups at Wageningen University & Research and partner institutions. Applicants should hold a relevant MSc degree and have experience in plant sciences, biology, genetics, agroecology, or related fields. Skills in quantitative analysis, bioinformatics, fieldwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration are highly valued. Proficiency in English at C1 level is required. The positions offer excellent employment conditions, including a competitive salary, benefits, and support for international staff. Applications are open until 23 February 2026. For more information, contact the listed supervisors or visit the provided vacancy links. Apply via the Wageningen University & Research website with a CV and motivation letter (max 3 pages). These positions provide an outstanding opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture and food systems in an international, innovative environment.