PhD Position in Food System Resilience and Agronomy at Wageningen University & Research Wageningen University & Research in Netherlands

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on food system resilience in Colombia, with a particular emphasis on Lighthouse Farm Communities (LHFs). The research aims to understand how resilience attributes—Agency, Buffers, Connectivity, and Diversity (ABCD)—help farmers anticipate and respond to disruptions such as climate change, pests, price volatility, and supply chain shocks. The project is part of the interdisciplinary INTRINSIC program, involving collaboration with multiple international partners and development organizations.

The PhD trajectory includes 10 months at WUR in the Netherlands (Soil Biology & Business Economics groups), fieldwork in Colombia (International Center for Tropical Agriculture and Ecohabitat), and a final phase back at WUR. The research will analyze resilience at farm, household, and community levels, design resilience metrics, and contribute to cross-country comparisons across five LHF communities. The position is embedded in a vibrant, international research environment with strong support for professional development and work-life balance.

Applicants should hold an MSc in Agricultural or Business Economics, Food System Governance, Biology, Soil Ecology, or Agronomy, and demonstrate interest in food system resilience, sustainability, and agronomy/soil science. Strong teamwork skills, English proficiency (C1), and preferably regional knowledge and fieldwork experience in rural Colombia are required. Analytical skills and experience in designing new metrics are advantageous.

The position offers a competitive salary in the Netherlands (€3,059–€3,881/month) and a stipend during fieldwork in Colombia (€1,380/month), with additional benefits such as parental leave, pension scheme, year-end bonus, and support for international relocation and visa procedures. The application deadline is 11 February 2026, with a preferred start date of 1 July 2026. To apply, submit a CV and motivation letter (max 3 pages) via the WUR vacancy page. For more information, contact the supervisors or recruiter at the provided emails.