2 PhD positions in Plant Physiology, Thermal Imaging, and Chlorophyll Fluorescence at Wageningen University & Research Wageningen University & Research in Netherlands

Wageningen University & Research is recruiting 2 PhD candidates for the GreenControl programme in plant physiology, horticulture, sensing, and modelling. The positions are embedded in the Horticulture and Product Physiology group at Wageningen University & Research and are led by Prof. Leo Marcelis together with team members including Silvère Vialet-Chabrand. The research focuses on plant-centred climate control in controlled environments such as greenhouses and vertical farms.

PhD 1: Thermal Imaging & Crop Canopy Transpiration
Work on methods to quantify canopy transpiration using thermal imaging, microclimate sensing, image processing, and multilayer energy-balance modelling. The project studies how temperature, humidity, airflow, and light affect stomatal behaviour and water use.

PhD 2: Chlorophyll Fluorescence Imaging & Canopy Photosynthesis
Develop approaches to monitor canopy photosynthesis using chlorophyll fluorescence imaging, leaf-level validation sensors, and multilayer photosynthesis models. The project examines how microclimate gradients affect electron transport, photosynthetic efficiency, and yield.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold an MSc in plant sciences, plant physiology, environmental sciences, physics, engineering, computational biology, or a related field. Experience in experimental plant physiology, modelling, data analysis, sensor interpretation, or image processing is preferred. Strong English skills are required, with C1 level expected.

Funding: both positions are fully funded PhD appointments. Salary starts at €3,059 per month in year 1 and rises to €3,881 per month in year 4, with a temporary 18-month contract that can be extended for the project duration if performance is good.

Application window: apply via the WUR vacancy page by 27 May 2026. Submit a CV and motivation letter (maximum 3 pages total). First interviews are scheduled for 9 June 2026.

Programme context: GreenControl is funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) and companies, and involves PhD students across Wageningen, Delft, Eindhoven, and Twente working with industry and growers on practical climate-control strategies.