Summary
Universiteit Leiden is offering a PhD position within the Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) in collaboration with Technical University Eindhoven and Wageningen University and Research. The successful candidate will work on the NWO-KIC project ‘RISE – Resilient Integrated Systems for Ecosystem restoration,’ focusing on designing validated Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for biodiversity improvements in agriculture and horticulture.
Designation
PhD Student
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| University | Universiteit Leiden |
| Institute | Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) |
| Position | PhD Candidate |
| Salary | €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month |
| Location | Leiden, Netherlands |
| Contract Duration | Initial 1 year, extendable up to 4 years |
| Application Deadline | 23 November 2026 |
Research Area
The research focuses on Environmental Sciences, specifically system dynamics, value chains, biodiversity restoration, and nature-inclusive agriculture and horticulture.
Location
Leiden, Netherlands (with fieldwork in Dutch agricultural regions).
Scholarship Description
The PhD candidate will join an interdisciplinary team of four PhDs to co-develop a system dynamics model for agrifood transitions. Key responsibilities include:
- Evaluating barriers and opportunities for nature-inclusive farming initiatives.
- Designing validated Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for biodiversity improvement in specific regional case areas.
- Creating actionable biodiversity strategies for regional agricultural stakeholders.
- Upscaling frameworks of biodiversity strategies to new agricultural landscapes.
Benefits include:
- A competitive salary with an 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- 232 vacation hours per year (for a 38-hour week).
- Flexible working hours and hybrid working options within the Netherlands.
- A comprehensive training program through the Graduate School of Science.
- Home-working allowance and provided laptop.
Eligibility/Qualification
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A Master’s degree in biology, environmental sciences, or a related field.
- A demonstrated interest in biodiversity research, preferably in agricultural settings.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work in interdisciplinary, multi-stakeholder environments.
- Excellent proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Willingness to conduct fieldwork in the Netherlands.
- Note: Speaking Dutch is a strong advantage due to the requirement for interviews and workshops with Dutch farmers and regional stakeholders.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply via the official Leiden University online recruitment system. Applications sent via email will not be considered. Please prepare the following documents for upload:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
- A cover letter (maximum 2 pages).
- Names and contact details of at least two referees.
Interviews are scheduled to take place online during the first or second week of December 2026.
Last Date for Apply
23 November 2026
Apply Link
Apply Here for the PhD Position
