Joachim Schouteten

Ghent University is offering two PhD positions as Assistant in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering. The role involves at least 50% academic research in preparation for a doctoral dissertation focused on socio-economic research in agricultural economics, with particular emphasis on innovations, consumer behavior, and marketing related to the agricultural or food sector. The successful candidates will also assist in teaching activities and contribute to internal and external departmental services. The research group is internationally recognized for its work in agro-food marketing and consumer behavior, providing a stimulating environment for interdisciplinary research. Applicants must hold a relevant master's degree (Bioscience Engineering, Industrial (Bio)sciences, (Applied) Economics, Business Engineering, Business Administration, or related fields) by the start of the appointment. For degrees awarded outside the EU, a certificate of equivalence (NARIC) is required. Candidates should demonstrate strong teaching and communication skills, fluency in English, and an interest in academic and/or project-based research. Knowledge of Dutch is recommended but not mandatory. The appointment is for two years, renewable twice for two years (maximum six years), with salary determined by scale AAP3 and additional staff benefits such as training opportunities, paid leave, and eco-friendly incentives. Applications must be submitted online before the deadline, including a CV, cover letter, degree transcript, and, if applicable, certificate of equivalence. The university encourages applications from all backgrounds as part of its equal opportunities and diversity policy. For further information, applicants may contact Professors Hans De Steur, Joachim Schouteten, or Wim Verbeke. This position offers an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in agricultural economics and contribute to innovative research in the food sector at a leading European university.

Ghent University is hiring a PhD researcher for a new Belgian–Vietnamese project on inclusive, transparent and deforestation-free agri-food supply chains . The project examines how the EU Deforestation Regulation can be implemented in Vietnam in ways that support both sustainability goals and the livelihoods of small-scale farmers . Research topics include how smallholders can participate fairly in supply chains, how consumers perceive transparency and inclusiveness, and how public policy can help farmers meet new sustainability requirements. The researcher will join the Agri-Food Marketing and Chain Management research group at Ghent University and work under the supervision of Prof. Hans De Steur , Prof. Joachim Schouteten , and Dr Trang Truong (Centre of Agricultural Policy, Vietnam). Fieldwork opportunities in Vietnam are mentioned. Applicants should have a relevant master’s degree , strong research skills , and fluency in English and Vietnamese . Deadline: 1 October 2026. Apply: Use the vacancy link provided in the post.