Vacancy
Researcher - Applied Research for Fruit Cultivation, Tree Nurseries, and Urban Greenery
Your job
* Due to the nature of the role, a strong command of the Dutch language is essential. Please send your CV and cover letter in Dutch when applying *
At WUR-Randwijk, you play a key role in implementing innovative research projects in tree nursery cultivation, urban greenery, and fruit production.
You coordinate and conduct (field) experiments on sustainable cultivation systems, plant health, and (precision) technologies. Think of research on climate-resilient urban greenery or sustainable control of the spotted wing drosophila. Additionally, you assist in acquiring new projects and lead smaller ones.
Together with research assistants, you collect valuable data from experiments and translate it into practical solutions for sustainability, urban greenery, and biodiversity. You work on both immediate improvements and innovations with long-term impact, such as proof-of-principle studies and new cultivation systems.
With your integrated approach, you contribute to robust and resilient production systems. You are the link between scientists and research assistants, translating scientific insights into practical applications.
We are looking for an independent colleague who can contribute to our high-quality and application-oriented research in a team setting.
Your tasks and responsibilities as a researcher include:
- Planning and designing experiments;
- Coordinating and conducting complex experiments in consultation with researchers, assistants, and companies; you maintain oversight, monitor the execution of tasks, and supervise research assistants;
- Collecting data (e.g., crop development), including its organization;
- Processing, interpreting, and reporting research results;
- Presenting results to clients, stakeholders, and the professional press.
You will collaborate with about 20 colleagues from various disciplines at the WUR location in Randwijk. Our work focuses on finding solutions for practical issues in fruit cultivation, tree nurseries, and the application of greenery in urban areas. This makes much of our work multidisciplinary and often collaborative, both within and outside WUR.
Your qualities
Do you want to contribute to the future of greenery and fruit cultivation?
At WUR-Randwijk, you play a key role in implementing innovative research projects in tree nursery cultivation, urban greenery, and fruit production.
You coordinate and conduct (field) experiments on sustainable cultivation systems, plant health, and (precision) technologies. Think of research on climate-resilient urban greenery or sustainable control of the spotted wing drosophila. Additionally, you assist in acquiring new projects and lead smaller ones.
Together with research assistants, you collect valuable data from experiments and translate it into practical solutions for sustainability, urban greenery, and biodiversity. You work on both immediate improvements and innovations with long-term impact, such as proof-of-principle studies and new cultivation systems.
With your integrated approach, you contribute to robust and resilient production systems. You are the link between scientists and research assistants, translating scientific insights into practical applications.
We are looking for an independent colleague who can contribute to our high-quality and application-oriented research in a team setting.
Your tasks and responsibilities as a researcher include:
- Planning and designing experiments;
- Coordinating and conducting complex experiments in consultation with researchers, assistants, and companies; you maintain oversight, monitor the execution of tasks, and supervise research assistants;
- Collecting data (e.g., crop development), including its organization;
- Processing, interpreting, and reporting research results;
- Presenting results to clients, stakeholders, and the professional press.
You will collaborate with about 20 colleagues from various disciplines at the WUR location in Randwijk. Our work focuses on finding solutions for practical issues in fruit cultivation, tree nurseries, and the application of greenery in urban areas. This makes much of our work multidisciplinary and often collaborative, both within and outside WUR.
Your qualities
You have practical knowledge of trees and the cultivation of woody crops (trees/fruit). You are a hands-on doer who communicates effectively—someone who seeks solutions and stands for good and scientifically sound research. You enjoy contributing to research setup, working on implementation, and subsequently analyzing and interpreting the results.
You also possess:
- At least a higher vocational (HBO) level of education;
- Broad, practical knowledge of tree nurseries and/or fruit cultivation;
- Strong communication skills for various audiences (practical, policy, scientific);
- Coordination skills and independence;
- A critical perspective and a willingness to broaden your knowledge field.
For this position, a good command of the Dutch language is essential, as well as a driver’s license (B).
In our international work environment, English is increasingly the language of communication. For this position, a C2-level proficiency in English is required. If you do not yet have this level, we will naturally support you, and you can attend language courses at Wageningen in’to Language.
You can see that plenty of challenges lie ahead for you. These challenges can also be seen as development opportunities. So, even if you do not have the exact track record outlined in this vacancy but do have solid work experience, we warmly invite you to apply.
We offer you
Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include:
- working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance;
- sabbatical leave, study leave, and partially paid parental leave;
- there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee;
- a fixed December bonus of 8,3%;
- excellent pension scheme.
Wageningen University & Research encourages internal advancement opportunities and mobility with an internal recruitment policy. There are plenty of options for personal initiative in a learning environment, and we provide excellent training opportunities. We are offering a multi-faceted position in an international environment with a pleasant and open working atmosphere.
WUR welcomes applications from international candidates. However, for applicants for this specific position from outside the EU/EFTA zone, immigration restrictions may apply based on Dutch and EU immigration laws. Such candidates may be eligible for an “orientation year” in the Netherlands or a visa as a “knowledge migrant
Do you want more information?
For more information about this position, please contact Marianne Groot, teamlead, 0488-473712 or e-mail; marianne.groot@wur.nl.
For more information about the procedure, please contact Ine van’t Land, corporate recruiter , ine.vantland@wur.nl
Do you want to apply?
You can apply directly using the apply button on the vacancy page on our website which will allow us to process your personal information with your approval.
This vacancy will be listed up to and including monday 20 jan 2025
Procedure
As part of our selection process, an assessment may be incorporated within the procedure
Welcome, safe, and valued
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) highly values diversity and inclusion because we believe that different insights lead to innovative solutions. We create a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated, regardless of background, identity, or experience. Together, we are building a culture where everyone's unique contribution adds to the success of our organization.
We are
The mission of Wageningen University & Research is “To explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life”. Under the banner Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen University and the specialised research institutes of the Wageningen Research Foundation have joined forces in contributing to finding solutions to important questions in the domain of healthy food and living environment. With its roughly 30 branches, 7,600 employees (6,700 fte) and 13,100 students and over 150,000 participants to WUR’s Life Long Learning, Wageningen University & Research is one of the leading organisations in its domain. The unique Wageningen approach lies in its integrated approach to issues and the collaboration between different disciplines.
Read the 5 reasons why your future colleagues enjoy working at WUR and watch the video below to get an idea of our green campus!
We will recruit for the vacancy ourselves, so no employment agencies please. However, sharing in your network is appreciated.