Are you passionate about the future of Plant Breeding and eager to explore the genetic potential of plants for sustainable agriculture? This postdoctoral position may be the perfect fit for you. Crop breeding is vital in addressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and food security. However, research efforts and funding in Europe are often fragmented, necessitating a stronger focus on crop breeding research and innovation. One of the primary goals in crop breeding has been to enhance resistance to pests and diseases. With the increasing pressures from both biotic and abiotic stresses due to climate change, our research aims to utilize advanced biotechnology and molecular breeding tools to develop tomato cultivars that can withstand various diseases and abiotic stresses. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to innovative plant breeding practices and apply your research skills in genetics, plant breeding, and phytopathology to create resilient crops. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on several projects, including EU and national initiatives funded by Topsector.

Your Duties And Responsibilities Include

• Identifying the future needs of plant breeding
• Designing and conducting research, including writing articles
• Supervising MSc and PhD students

You will work here

You will be part of the “Breeding for Resistance” research group at WUR Plant Breeding, collaborating closely with colleagues from various WUR Chair groups, including the Laboratory of Virology and the Laboratory of Phytopathology, as well as Business Units such as Biointeractions. The Plant Breeding department at Wageningen University & Research comprises around 200 individuals, including MSc and PhD students and guest workers, forming a highly international community with over 30 nationalities. Our research encompasses fundamental, strategic, and applied studies, focusing on the genetic basis of traits essential for sustainable agriculture and horticulture, often in partnership with breeding companies and various governmental bodies.

Your qualities

We seek a researcher with strong communication skills and expertise in genetics, plant breeding, and/or phytopathology, who has a collaborative mindset and a genuine interest in resistance breeding. Candidates with experience in crop genetics and breeding are preferred.

The Candidates Should Have Most Of The Following Qualifications

• A PhD degree in a relevant field, such as Genetics, Plant Breeding, Plant Pathology/Virology
• Proven research skills in unraveling the molecular genetics of disease resistance
• Excellent planning and communication skills (both oral and written)
• A collaborative personality with a keen interest in working with colleagues and students
• A demonstrated ability to publish in peer-reviewed journals
• Proficiency in English at level C1.

We offer

Wageningen University & Research provides excellent employment terms. Highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include:

• Sabbatical leave, study leave, and partially paid parental leave
• Flexible working hours to promote work-life balance
• Access to campus sports facilities at a minimal fee
• An annual fixed bonus of 8.3%
• A competitive gross salary ranging from €3,706 to €5,760 for a full-time position (38 hours), in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (scale 10).

This is a temporary contract for 12 months, extendable for an additional 2 years based on performance. We encourage development and internal mobility within our organization. If you have questions, we are happy to assist.

You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open environment.

Coming from abroad

Wageningen University & Research is a leading institution for life sciences, with a significant international community. Our team of advisors will assist you with the visa application process for you and your family, ensuring a smooth transition to living and working in the Netherlands.

Important information

For more information about the position, please contact Prof. Dr. Yuling Bai via email: bai.yuling@wur.nl. Questions about the procedure can be directed to vacaturemeldingen.psg@wur.nl. To apply, please click the application button next to the vacancy on our website. Applications submitted through our website will be considered, and the deadline for applications is September 21, 2026. Internal candidates are encouraged to apply before August 30, 2026. Interviews will be conducted shortly after the closing date.

Procedure

An assessment may be part of our selection process.

Welcome, safe, and valued

Wageningen University & Research values diversity and inclusion, believing that diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions. We strive to create a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated, regardless of their background or experience. Together, we are building a culture where each unique contribution adds to our success.

We are

Wageningen University & Research's mission is to explore nature's potential to enhance quality of life. With approximately 30 branches, 7,600 employees, and over 13,100 students, we are a leading organization in the life sciences domain, committed to addressing significant global challenges related to healthy food and living environments. Our integrated approach fosters collaboration across disciplines, leading to innovative solutions.

Why choose WUR?

Discover five reasons why your future colleagues enjoy working at WUR and watch our video to get a glimpse of our green campus. We will manage the recruitment for this vacancy ourselves, so please refrain from contacting employment agencies. However, sharing this opportunity within your network is appreciated.