PhD in Insect Waste Conversion — Wageningen University

Key details

• Host institution: Wageningen University & Research
• Location: Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg, Wageningen, Netherlands
• Application deadline: July 15, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

Wageningen University & Research is seeking a PhD candidate to develop a screening method for optimizing the conversion of waste substrates by black soldier fly larvae into valuable proteins, fats, and fertilizer. The project addresses two industry models: efficient protein/fat production for feed ingredients, and waste reduction with by-products. You will design and validate a method to test selective nutrient additions in vivo, based on substrate chemical composition and larval requirements, using aqua sludge (salmon feces and feed leftovers) as a model. After proof of concept, you will expand the method for broader waste materials, aiming to improve resource use efficiency, reduce feed costs, and enhance circularity.

Your duties and responsibilities

• Design and validate a robust substrate screening methodology for black soldier fly larvae.
• Refine the screening method by advancing knowledge on nutrient requirements of black soldier fly larvae.
• Refine the screening method by advancing knowledge on physio-chemical substrate requirements of black soldier fly larvae.

Work environment

The research is embedded within the chair of Animal Nutrition, led by Prof. Wouter Hendriks. You will be supervised by Prof. Wouter Hendriks and co-supervised by Dr. Guido Bosch and Dr. Dennis Oonincx.