PhD Position in Food System Resilience and Agricultural Economics at Wageningen University & Research
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) in the Netherlands is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position focused on Food System Resilience, with primary research in Indonesia and comparative studies in Colombia, Cuba, Ethiopia, and Iraq. The project aims to understand how food systems can survive and thrive amid climate shocks, price volatility, and supply chain disruptions, using the ABCD framework (Agency, Buffers, Connectivity, Diversity). The research is embedded in the Business Economics group and the Soil Physics and Land Management group at WUR, with fieldwork at Brawijaya University in Indonesia.
The successful candidate will study resilience attributes at farm, household, and community levels, link resilience to sustainability and economic efficiency, and collaborate with international partners such as the World Bank, Gates Foundation, GIZ, and Rabobank Partnerships. The position is part of the INTRINSIC program, an interdisciplinary initiative involving five PhD positions across five countries and development organizations. The research will involve close collaboration with other PhDs in the program and local partners like the Integrated Organic Farming System Research Centre in Indonesia.
Applicants must have an MSc in agricultural or business economics, food system governance, or agronomy with an interest in resilience and economics. Strong English proficiency (C1), teamwork, analytical skills, and willingness to conduct field research are required. Affinity with Indonesian agri-food systems is preferred. Application materials include a CV (max 2 pages), motivation letter (max 1 page), and up to two reference letters. The deadline for applications is 15 February 2026, with interviews scheduled for 18 February 2026.
The position offers a gross salary starting at €3,059/month in the first year, rising to €3,881/month in the fourth year, plus an 8.3% year-end bonus, paid parental leave, a strong pension scheme, and visa and relocation support for international candidates. The first and last 10 months are spent in Wageningen, with fieldwork in Indonesia in between. The program emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and real-world impact in food, sustainability, and life sciences.
For more information, contact Prof. Miranda Meuwissen ([email protected]), Dr. Karrar Mahdi ([email protected]), or Dr. Uma Khumairoh ([email protected]). Apply via the official WUR vacancy page. Sharing in your network is appreciated.