PhD in Controlled Environment Agriculture and Canopy Photosynthesis at Wageningen University & Research Wageningen University & Research in Netherlands

Wageningen University & Research is inviting applications for a PhD position in Controlled Environment Agriculture focused on optimizing canopy photosynthesis. The project sits within the Horticulture and Product Physiology chair and the GreenControl programme, which is funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) and industry partners. The research is based in Wageningen, the Netherlands, and is part of a broader effort to improve greenhouse and vertical-farm production through plant physiology, modelling, and data-driven climate control.

The PhD candidate will study how photosynthesis operates across different temporal and spatial scales in crops grown under realistic greenhouse and vertical farming conditions. The work combines chlorophyll fluorescence imaging, leaf-level validation sensors, microclimate measurements, and modelling tools to identify photosynthetic limitations, regulatory processes, and acclimation responses. The goal is to translate physiological insights into actionable strategies for improving crop performance, resource-use efficiency, and sustainable food production.

Research themes include canopy photosynthesis, plant productivity, advanced phenotyping, environmental and lighting manipulation experiments, process-based crop modelling, and optimization of controlled environment agriculture systems. The project involves collaboration with technology providers, growers, and researchers, and is designed to produce results that can be used directly in operational climate-control strategies.

Applicants should have a completed MSc degree in plant sciences, plant physiology or ecophysiology, environmental sciences, or a related field. The ideal candidate has an interest in plant physiology, photosynthesis, crop modelling, and controlled environment agriculture, plus experience or affinity with data analysis, image processing, and programming in R, Python, or MATLAB. Strong communication skills, creativity, independence, and the ability to work in an international research environment are important. English proficiency at C1 level is expected, and an internationally recognised English certificate may sometimes be required.

This is a fully funded 4-year PhD position. The salary starts at €3,059 per month in year one and rises to €3,881 per month in year four, based on a 38-hour work week. WUR also highlights employment benefits such as work-life balance arrangements, a year-end bonus, pension scheme, campus sports facilities, and support for international staff, including visa guidance and practical relocation information.

The application deadline is 2 July 2026. To apply, candidates must submit a CV and motivation letter through the official WUR vacancy page; the combined length of the documents must not exceed 3 pages. Only applications submitted via the website will be considered.