Your job involves contributing to the design of reward schemes that enhance biodiversity in dairy farming. This PhD position will explore existing schemes, farmer preferences, and the impact on biodiversity measures and farm income. The role is part of the DECISION project, funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO), which includes collaboration with private companies and stakeholders in the Alblasserwaard region.

Your Duties And Responsibilities Include

• Develop a research proposal and Training and Supervision Plan for the 4-year PhD trajectory.
• Conduct research focusing on four objectives:
  • Analyze existing reward schemes for biodiversity, considering various actors and types.
  • Evaluate dairy farmers' preferences for different reward schemes.
  • Assess the impact of these schemes on the implementation of biodiversity measures and farm income.
  • Analyze risks associated with implementing biodiversity measures.
• Disseminate findings through academic publications, presentations at international conferences, and stakeholder-focused content.
• Collaborate with the DECISION project team to achieve broader project goals.

You will work here

You will be supervised by Prof. dr. Miranda Meuwissen and Dr. Max Koppenberg from the Business Economics group, and Dr. Raimon Ripoll-Bosch from the Animal Production Systems group at Wageningen University & Research. This multidisciplinary team focuses on farm economics, risk management, and the interactions between livestock, nature, and economy, showcasing the collaborative nature of this PhD position.

Your qualities

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with:

• A completed MSc degree in agricultural economics, food and agribusiness, sustainable finance, or related fields with an interest in farming systems.
• Experience in animal or crop production systems and farm economics.
• Proficiency in quantitative methods, farm accounting, modeling, or statistical analysis.
• Experience in primary data collection, including interviews and surveys.
• Excellent writing and presentation skills in English (C1 level required).

We offer

Wageningen University & Research provides excellent employment conditions, including:

• Partially paid parental leave;
• Flexible working hours for a better work-life balance;
• Access to campus sports facilities for a small fee;
• A fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• A strong pension scheme.

In addition, you will receive a fully funded PhD position with a tailored course program. The gross salary starts at €3,204 per month, increasing to €4,051 in the fourth year, based on the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities. A temporary contract for 18 months will be extended based on performance.

Coming from abroad

Wageningen University & Research is a leading institution in life sciences with a large international community. Our team will assist you with visa applications and provide practical support for settling in the Netherlands.

Important information

For more details, contact Prof. dr. Miranda Meuwissen or Dr. Raimon Ripoll-Bosch. For procedural inquiries, reach out to Noorien Abbas, Corporate Recruiter.

Ready to apply?

Submit your application via our website, including your CV, motivation letter, and transcripts. The application deadline is September 28, 2026, with interviews scheduled for October 13, 2026.

Welcome, safe, and valued

Wageningen University & Research values diversity and inclusion, fostering a work environment where everyone feels welcome and appreciated. Together, we aim to create innovative solutions for global challenges.