Wim Vriezen

Wageningen University & Research, in collaboration with Utrecht University, Leiden University, Maastricht University, University of Groningen, and University of Twente, is offering several fully funded PhD positions within the REAP2SOW programme. These positions focus on advancing sustainable protein crops through research in plant physiology, genetics, phenotyping, and biodiversity-positive cropping systems. The programme aims to address the urgent challenge of transitioning to a sustainable, plant-based protein system by 2050, reducing agriculture's environmental impact and strengthening food security in the face of climate change. PhD projects are available in the following areas: Plant Stress Physiology, Nitrogen, and Photosynthesis: Investigate how novel protein crops such as quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker respond to abiotic stress, focusing on nitrogen acquisition, photosynthesis, root development, and carbon-nitrogen allocation. Research involves controlled-environment experiments, molecular and cellular analyses, and advanced bioinformatics. Crop Genetics and Phenotyping: Study the genetic architecture and phenotypic traits of emerging protein crops. Projects include high-throughput phenotyping, bioinformatics, and trait mapping to support breeding strategies for climate-resilient crops. Biodiversity-Positive Cropping Systems: Explore how protein crops contribute to ecosystem services and biodiversity in agricultural systems. Research includes field trials, biodiversity monitoring, and engagement with farmers to develop sustainable cropping strategies. Supervision is provided by a multidisciplinary team of leading academics, including Prof. Jochem Evers, Dr. Steven Driever, Prof. Viola Willemsen, Dr. Wouter Kohlen, Dr. Martijn van Zanten, Dr. Kaisa Kajala, Dr. Chris Maliepaard, Dr. Peter Bourke, Dr. Andries Temme, Prof. Luisa Trindade, Prof. Wim Vriezen, Dr. Casper Quist, Dr. Klaas Bouwmeester, Prof. Jonne Rodenburg, and Dr. Paul Ravensbergen. The research is embedded in renowned groups at Wageningen University & Research and partner institutions. Applicants should hold a relevant MSc degree and have experience in plant sciences, biology, genetics, agroecology, or related fields. Skills in quantitative analysis, bioinformatics, fieldwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration are highly valued. Proficiency in English at C1 level is required. The positions offer excellent employment conditions, including a competitive salary, benefits, and support for international staff. Applications are open until 23 February 2026. For more information, contact the listed supervisors or visit the provided vacancy links. Apply via the Wageningen University & Research website with a CV and motivation letter (max 3 pages). These positions provide an outstanding opportunity to contribute to sustainable agriculture and food systems in an international, innovative environment.

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) in the Netherlands is offering two fully funded PhD positions focused on crop genetics and phenotyping for future protein crops. These positions are part of the REAP2SOW programme, a national collaboration aimed at advancing sustainable, plant-based protein systems and supporting the Dutch protein transition. The research will center on quinoa, white lupin, and the historic tuber crop aardaker, integrating plant physiology, genetics, and high-throughput phenotyping to identify key traits for climate-resilient, productive crops. PhD1 will focus on the physiology and genetics of aardaker, including growth, development, environmental responses, speed-breeding protocols, resilience assays, and genetic resource analysis. PhD2 will emphasize phenotyping, bioinformatics, and ideotype design for quinoa and lupin, implementing high-throughput phenotyping pipelines and linking genotype to phenotype using quantitative and bioinformatics methods. Both positions involve collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to designing the next generation of sustainable protein crops. The research is embedded within the Wageningen University Department of Plant Breeding, with collaboration from Maastricht University and other Dutch institutions. Supervisors include Dr. Chris Maliepaard, Dr. Peter Bourke, Dr. Andries Temme, Prof. Luisa Trindade, Prof. Wim Vriezen, and Dr. Wouter Kohlen. The positions offer a gross salary from €3,059 to €3,881 per month, a tailored course program, flexible work-life balance, sports facilities, parental leave, pension scheme, year-end bonus, and support for international staff relocation and tax benefits. Applicants must have an MSc in plant sciences, biology, agriculture, genetics, bioinformatics, or a related field, with experience in plant experiments, phenotyping, or physiological measurements. Skills in data analysis, –omics datasets, and genotype-phenotype mapping are required, along with strong collaboration and organizational skills. English proficiency at C1 level is mandatory. Applications must include a CV and motivation letter (max 3 pages total) and be submitted via the WUR vacancy page by 23 February 2026. For more information, contact Dr. Andries Temme at [email protected]. Join WUR to help shape the future of sustainable protein crops in an innovative, international environment!