Wageningen University & Research is offering two fully funded PhD positions within the REAP2SOW programme, focusing on plant stress physiology, nitrogen acquisition, and photosynthesis in novel protein crops such as quinoa, white lupin, and tuberous pea. The research aims to understand how these crops respond to abiotic stresses like temperature and water fluctuations, with the goal of improving crop resilience and contributing to the transition toward sustainable, plant-based protein systems. The projects are embedded in a collaborative environment involving Wageningen University, Utrecht University, Leiden University, the University of Twente, and the University of Groningen, as well as partners from the agri-food sector. Supervision will be provided by a team of experts: Prof. Jochem Evers, Dr. Steven Driever, Prof. Viola Willemsen, Dr. Wouter Kohlen, Dr. Martijn van Zanten, and Dr. Kaisa Kajala. Research activities include designing and executing controlled-environment experiments, phenotyping, molecular and cellular analyses, physiological measurements, and advanced data integration using bioinformatics and quantitative/statistical methods. Applicants should hold an MSc in plant sciences, plant (molecular) biology, or a related field, with experience in plant physiology, stress resilience, or controlled-environment experiments. Additional skills in molecular biology, transcriptomics, bioinformatics, microscopy, or physiological measurements are advantageous. Strong teamwork and project management abilities are required, and proficiency in English at C1 level is expected. The positions are fully funded, with a gross salary starting at €3,059 per month and rising to €3,881 in the fourth year, plus benefits such as a year-end bonus, pension scheme, and parental leave. International candidates are welcome and will receive support with visa procedures and may be eligible for tax exemptions. The application deadline is 23 February 2026. To apply, candidates should submit a CV and motivation letter (max 3 pages total) via the Wageningen University & Research vacancy website. Only applications submitted through the website will be considered. For more information, contact Dr. Steven Driever 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.

Wageningen University & Research is offering two fully funded PhD positions within the Dutch-Danish project 'Robotic Intercropping', focusing on the development of sustainable crop systems that are resource-use efficient, biodiversity-friendly, and promote ecosystem services. The project is divided into two main research areas: 'Agro-ecological Potential' (experimental) and 'Ecological Interactions Among Plants' (modelling). Position #1 – Experimental: This PhD will evaluate and optimize highly diverse intercropping systems, assessing combinations of service crops and their management by robots to reduce agricultural inputs, enhance biodiversity, and maintain crop yields. The research involves large, multi-year field experiments in both Wageningen and Copenhagen, in collaboration with Danish counterparts. The successful candidate will analyze the effects of different crop combinations on ecosystem services and contribute to practical experimental design and data analysis. Position #2 – Modelling: This PhD will focus on understanding competition and interactions between cash and service crop plants in intercrop systems, using advanced 3D functional-structural plant modelling. The research will address eco-physiological mechanisms and the impact of management practices such as leaf pruning and root cutting, considering both above- and belowground processes. The candidate will use experimental data and contribute to data acquisition and complex biological data analysis. Both positions are based at the Centre for Crop Systems Analysis (CSA) at Wageningen University, with regular collaboration and meetings across the Dutch-Danish project team. Supervisors include Dr Luuk Croijmans, Dr Dirk van Apeldoorn, Prof Dr Niels Anten (Position #1), Dr Franca Bongers, Prof Dr Jochem Evers (Position #2), and Prof Dr Svend Christensen (Copenhagen University, co-supervisor). Eligibility: Applicants must have an MSc in a relevant field. For the experimental position, backgrounds in agro-ecology, agronomy, soil biology, plant pathology, or entomology are required, with experience in field ecology/experiments and data analysis. For the modelling position, an MSc in computational biology, applied mathematics, plant/crop science, or related fields is needed, with strong computational and modelling skills. All candidates must demonstrate excellent English proficiency (C1 level). Funding & Benefits: The positions are fully funded, with a gross salary starting at €3,059 per month and rising to €3,881 in the fourth year (CAO-NU scale P, 38 hours/week). Employment includes excellent benefits such as paid parental leave, year-end bonus, pension scheme, and access to campus sports facilities. International candidates receive support for visa procedures and relocation. Application Process: Apply via the Wageningen University vacancy page, submitting a CV and motivation letter (max 3 pages). Clearly indicate which position you are applying for at the start of your letter. The application deadline is December 14, 2025, with interviews scheduled for January 2026. Wageningen University & Research is committed to diversity, inclusion, and providing a welcoming environment for all staff and students. The university is a global leader in life sciences, with a strong focus on food, environment, and societal challenges. For further information, contact Prof Dr Niels Anten (Position #1) or Prof Dr Jochem Evers (Position #2). For procedural questions, contact Dax Teunissen, Corporate Recruiter.