PhD Student on Key Performance Indicators for Biodiversity-Inclusive Agriculture
Design validated biodiversity key performance indicators for sustainable agriculture in an interdisciplinary team.
Best for:Best for environmental science or biology graduates with a strong interest in sustainable agriculture, system dynamics, and stakeholder engagement.
Overview
Leiden University's Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) invites applications for a 4-year PhD position focusing on key performance indicators for biodiversity-inclusive agriculture. Working within the NWO-KIC project RISE (Resilient Integrated Systems for Ecosystem restoration), the candidate will collaborate with Eindhoven University of Technology and Wageningen University and Research. The research involves evaluating farming practices, developing system dynamics models, and engaging with regional agricultural stakeholders and farmers. The successful applicant will contribute to the transition toward nature-inclusive agriculture while enjoying a supportive, flexible academic environment.
What you'll do
- Evaluate barriers and opportunities for nature-inclusive agricultural and horticultural initiatives.
- Design validated Key Performance Indicators for biodiversity improvement across two regional case areas.
- Formulate actionable biodiversity strategies and indicators for regional agricultural stakeholders.
- Scale up frameworks of biodiversity strategies from regional landscapes to broader applications.
- Co-develop a system dynamics model for agrifood transitions within an interdisciplinary team of four PhD candidates.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree in biology, environmental sciences, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent written and spoken proficiency
Instruction: English
- Demonstrated interest in biodiversity research, specifically in agricultural or horticultural contexts
- Willingness to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team environment
- Strong communication skills for interacting with diverse academic and non-academic stakeholders
- Willingness to conduct fieldwork in Dutch agricultural and horticultural regions
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-23
Submit your application through the online recruitment system using the provided portal link. Ensure all required application materials, including your CV and cover letter, are uploaded and reference the vacancy number. E-mail applications will not be reviewed.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Names and contact details of at least two referees
Contact
Peter van Bodegom· Professor
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