Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join the European RESHAPE project, focusing on bridging the gap between society and food systems to drive transformative change towards sustainable and resilient futures. The successful candidate will conduct interdisciplinary research on food value chains, with a particular emphasis on the Dutch case study of Gouda cheese, exploring both industrial and traditional production methods. This 36-month, fully funded postdoc position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of environmental science, sociology, and agriculture, contributing to the development of sustainable food systems. The research aims to reconnect food production and societal needs, fostering innovative solutions for resilient food futures. The project is ideal for candidates with a background in food systems, value chain analysis, or related interdisciplinary research areas. Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant discipline and demonstrate experience in interdisciplinary research. The position is based at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, a leading institution in the Netherlands, and offers a competitive salary and employment benefits in line with Dutch university standards. The application deadline is January 15th, 2025. For more information and to apply, visit the official VU Amsterdam vacancy portal.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam is offering an exciting postdoctoral opportunity as part of the European RESHAPE project, focusing on reconnecting people, food, and nature. The successful candidate will research social-ecological dynamics that shape food-society relationships, with a particular emphasis on participatory research within Dutch Gouda cheese value chains. This interdisciplinary role involves collaboration across Europe to design innovative strategies for sustainable food systems, publishing high-impact research, and coordinating work within an international consortium. Applicants should have a PhD in geography, environmental sciences, or a related field, with demonstrated expertise in socio-ecological systems analysis and a strong publication record. Transdisciplinary research skills and excellent English proficiency are required, while knowledge of Dutch is a plus. The position is full-time (0.8-1.0 FTE), initially for one year with the possibility of a two-year extension, and offers a competitive monthly salary between €3,546 and €5,538. The anticipated start date is around May 15, 2026, and the application deadline is January 15, 2026. This postdoc role is ideal for candidates interested in transforming food systems through interdisciplinary research, particularly those with a background in environmental science, geography, and sustainable food systems. The project provides an opportunity to work at the intersection of social and ecological research, contribute to the development of sustainable food value chains, and engage with a dynamic European research network. For more information or to apply, candidates are encouraged to contact Assistant Professor Dr. Mario Torralba Viorreta or visit the VU Amsterdam job portal.