PhD in Grassland Multifunctionality Through Modelling
Explore how farm management impacts biodiversity and ecosystem services in Dutch grasslands using advanced modelling techniques.
Best for:Best for interdisciplinary researchers with strong quantitative skills, experience in modelling (e.g., R, Python, GAMS), and a passion for sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation.
Overview
This PhD position at Wageningen University & Research focuses on investigating the effects of grassland management on biodiversity and ecosystem services within the Horizon Europe GrassConnect project. The candidate will develop and apply modelling approaches to analyze farm data, assess trade-offs between productivity, biodiversity, and sustainability, and contribute to decision-making frameworks for nature-inclusive agroecosystems. The project integrates interdisciplinary collaboration across 14 countries and leverages existing farm data to drive evidence-based solutions. Based in Wageningen, the successful applicant will work under dual supervision, combining expertise in biodiversity and farm system modelling to advance sustainable agricultural practices.
What you'll do
- Develop a structured 4-year research proposal and training plan under joint supervision.
- Conduct state-of-the-art literature reviews on ecosystem services delivery from grasslands under diverse management regimes.
- Investigate mechanistic relationships between grassland management, ecosystem services, and livestock productivity using regression analysis, mechanistic modelling, and meta-analysis.
- Assess environmental and socioeconomic performance of dairy farms using the bio-economic optimization model (Dairy LP).
- Publish research findings in high-impact journals and present work at international conferences.
- Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams across 14 countries within the GrassConnect project.
Requirements
Degree required: Master of Science (MSc) in Agronomy, Animal Sciences, Plant Science, Environmental Sciences, or Integrative Agricultural Sciences or related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; C1 proficiency level (internationally recognized certificate may be required)
Instruction: English
- Proficient knowledge of dynamic or mechanistic modelling techniques
- Experience with programming in R, GAMS, or Python
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills
- Familiarity with systems approaches and interdisciplinary research
- Excellent written communication skills in English
- Ability to collaborate effectively in large, multi-disciplinary teams
- No specific nationality restrictions mentioned
- Open to applicants from any country
- No age restrictions mentioned
- No prior experience caps mentioned
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-19
Applicants should submit their application through the Wageningen University & Research portal. The application must include a CV, a motivation letter, and a research proposal outline. Additionally, applicants should provide proof of English proficiency if required.
- CV
- Cover letter/motivation letter
- Research proposal outline
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- MSc transcripts and degree certificate
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