Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026 is a great opportunity for researchers interested in sustainable agriculture. Wageningen University & Research is offering two PhD positions focused on understanding how intercropping systems work within modern farming. These roles allow candidates to join an innovative, international research environment.
Applicants must hold a relevant master’s degree and show a strong interest in ecological interactions and sustainable farming. Solid analytical skills, teamwork ability, and proficiency in English are also required. This fellowship is an excellent step for anyone aiming to build a research career in agricultural and environmental sciences.
Benefits of Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026
- Fully funded PhD employment contract (18 months initially, extended upon good performance).
- Gross monthly salary: €3,059 (1st year) rising to €3,881 (4th year).
- Excellent employee benefits under the Dutch Collective Labour Agreement (CAO-NU), including:
- Partially paid parental leave
- Flexible working hours and strong work-life balance
- Access to campus sports facilities at low cost
- 8.3% fixed year-end bonus
- Excellent pension scheme
- Tailored PhD training program and professional development opportunities.
- Support with visa procedures, housing, partner employment, and integration for international applicants.
Eligibility Criteria for the Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026
- Eligible Countries: Applicants from all countries are welcome.
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for PhD research related to intercropping systems within the Centre for Crop Systems Analysis.
- Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:
General Requirements (for both positions):
- Strong interest in sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and ecological interactions.
- Ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary research team.
- Excellent communication skills (oral and written) for academic and non-academic audiences.
- English language proficiency at C1 level.
Additional Criteria for Position 1 – Experimental:
- MSc in agro-ecology, agronomy, soil biology, plant pathology, entomology, or related field.
- Experience with field ecology or field experiments.
- Ability to translate scientific concepts into practical experiments; strong problem-solving skills.
- Interest in biodiversity, ecological traits, and sustainability.
- Experience with complex data analysis.
Additional Criteria for Position 2 – Modelling:
- MSc in computational biology, applied mathematics, plant sciences, plant ecophysiology, agroecology, or related fields.
- Strong affinity for computational methods, especially modelling.
- Experience in analyzing complex biological datasets and interpreting ecological significance.
- Interest in 3D functional-structural plant modelling.
How to Apply for the Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026?
- Start by reading the full PhD position details carefully to understand the project goals and requirements.
- Prepare an updated CV that highlights your academic background, research experience, and relevant skills.
- Write a clear motivation letter explaining why you want this PhD fellowship and how your expertise fits the project.
- Gather all required documents, such as transcripts, certificates, and contact information for academic referees.
- Combine your application materials into the format requested in the official announcement.
- Submit your complete application through the designated online application portal before the stated deadline.
- Double-check that all files are uploaded correctly and that your information is accurate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026 offers two PhD tracks — experimental and modelling — at Wageningen University, aimed at improving sustainable intercropping systems. You need a relevant MSc, good ecological or modelling skills, and C1-level English. Fully funded, salaried and with strong benefits.
What is the aim of the Functioning of Intercropping Systems Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026?
Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026 supports two PhD positions focusing on sustainable crop systems: one experimental, the other modelling. The goal is to improve resource-use efficiency, biodiversity and ecosystem services in intercropping systems, while maintaining comparable crop yields.
What are the two PhD positions offered under this Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026?
Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026 two tracks: Position #1 is experimental, evaluating diverse intercropping systems and robot-managed service crops; Position #2 is modelling, using 3D functional-structural plant modelling to study plant interactions, competition and eco-physiological mechanisms.
Where will the PhD research take place?
Research is based at the centre for Crop Systems Analysis (CSA) at Wageningen University in the Netherlands. Position #1 may include field experiments also at a partner site in Copenhagen.
What are the main tasks in the experimental PhD (Position #1)?
You will design, run and analyze large multi-year field experiments comparing different service-crop combinations and robotic management. The aim is to see how these systems affect ecosystem services, biodiversity and yields.
What will the modelling PhD (Position #2) focus on?
You will build and run 3D functional-structural models to simulate competition and interactions between cash and service crops — above and below ground — and study how environment, soil, and management practices influence outcomes.
What qualifications are required for Position #1 (experimental)?
Applicants should hold an MSc in agro-ecology, agronomy, soil biology, plant pathology, entomology or similar, with experience in field ecology or field experiments, strong interest in sustainable agriculture and biodiversity, and skills in data analysis and hands-on ecological work.
What qualifications are required for Position #2 (modelling)?
Candidates should have an MSc in computational biology, applied mathematics, plant/crop science, plant ecophysiology, agroecology or a related field. They should be comfortable with computational methods or modelling and working with complex biological datasets.
What are the employment terms and benefits of the Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026?
Functioning of Intercropping Systems PhD Fellowship 2026 is fully funded. Salary starts at €3,059 per month (year 1), rising to €3,881 by year 4 (full-time, 38 h/week). Benefits include paid parental leave, year-end bonus (8.3%), pension scheme, flexible working hours, campus sports facilities and tailored training programmes.
How do I apply and what documents are needed?
You must apply via the official vacancy page by the deadline (14 December 2025). Required documents are: an up-to-date CV and a motivation letter, together not exceeding 3 pages. No grades or transcripts are necessary at this stage.
Is English proficiency required?
Yes. Candidates must command English at C1 level. In some cases, an internationally recognized English proficiency certificate may be required.
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