PhD in Sustainable Nutrient Management — Ghent University

Key details

• Host institution: Ghent University
• Location: Ghent University, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 33, Ghent, Belgium
• Application deadline: August 15, 2026

Funding

Horizon Europe

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

Ghent University, a world-class institution employing over 15,000 people, is seeking a motivated junior expert for a PhD position within the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology (BW24). This role is part of the Horizon Europe projects GREENHOOD and MARVELA, focusing on sustainable nutrient management and agricultural innovation.

About the Research

This PhD project addresses critical challenges in European agriculture, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions (CH4 and N2O) from livestock, manure management, and fertilizer application. The research will develop and validate cost-effective monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) tools for non-CO2 emissions. Key areas include optimizing livestock feeding, recovering nutrients as RENURE fertilizers, and applying precision fertilization technologies. The goal is to support evidence-based mitigation strategies for a climate-neutral agricultural sector through laboratory and field experiments.

Your Tasks

At least 90% of your assignment will be dedicated to academic research in preparation of a doctoral dissertation. You will work within an integrated systems approach, combining accurate monitoring with circular nutrient management and climate-smart farming practices.

Candidate Profile

• Hold a Master’s degree in applied biological sciences (e.g., agriculture, environmental technology).
• Demonstrate interest and motivation in the research topic and obtaining a PhD.
• Have experience designing and conducting laboratory and/or field experiments related to manure management and agricultural systems.
• Possess strong English communication skills, both written and oral.
• Have basic knowledge of data analysis using R, Python, MATLAB, or equivalent software.
• Have basic knowledge of GIS and digital mapping.
• Exhibit communicative skills to interact independently with the scientific, business, and farming communities.

What We Offer

• A contract of indefinite duration with a maximum term of 4 years, starting 1 October 2026 at the earliest.
• Remuneration according to salary scale WM1 (master degree).
• Benefits include 36 days of holiday leave (annual basis for full-time), annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance, and eco vouchers.
• Involvement in European projects (GREENHOOD and MARVELA) with partners across the EU.
• Opportunities for mobility to partner countries, including short or longer stays in Europe and/or China, with the possibility of a Dual Degree PhD.
• Close supervision, guidance, and support for participation in courses, workshops, and conferences.

Eligibility and Application

Apply online through the Ghent University e-recruitment system before 15 August 2026 (23:59 Brussels Time). Late or email applications will not be accepted. Your application must include: a CV (with publication list and study results overview, merged into one PDF), a motivation letter (PDF), a transcript of the required degree (with translation if not in Dutch, French, German, or English), and a reference letter with examples of your most representative publications. Maximum file size per field is 10 MB.

Next Steps

Selected candidates will be invited for an interview in September 2026. For more information, contact Prof. E. Meers ([email protected], +32(0)478 78 60 98). Do not send applications by email. For application process questions, consult the FAQ or contact [email protected].