Pieter Zuidema

Wageningen University & Research is advertising a fully funded PhD position on forensic tracing of tropical timber in the Netherlands. The project addresses the illegal timber trade and develops scientific tools to verify timber origin using wood chemistry , mass spectrometry , geostatistical modelling , and forest-related data analysis . The work is embedded in the Forest Ecology and Forest Management group and the Laboratory of Geo-Information Science and Remote Sensing , within the Timtrace team. The PhD will analyse timber forensic data with predictive geostatistical tools, contribute to a publicly accessible dashboard for timber verification, and collaborate with international partners across Central Africa, South-East Asia, South and North America. The post mentions two related PhD vacancies in the same project; applicants may apply to only one of them. Eligibility highlights: MSc in Ecology, Environmental Science, Forest & Nature Conservation, Geo-Information Science, or a related field; proven experience in geostatistical modelling of forest-related data and/or timber forensics; strong analytical and critical thinking skills; collaborative and creative mindset; excellent communication skills; English at C1 level. Funding: fully funded PhD with salary from €3,204/month in year 1 to €4,051/month in year 4, plus a tailored course program. The contract is initially for 18 months and may be extended for the project duration. Application window: apply by 2026-11-17. Submit a CV (max 2 pages) and motivation letter (max 1 page), and complete the mandatory Microsoft form linked in the vacancy. Applications must be submitted through the WUR website.