Postdoctoral Fellowship: Postdoc Food Chemistry

Postdoctoral Fellow in Food Chemistry – Biodegradable Gastric Device Project

About the Role

The Laboratory of Food Chemistry at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join a collaborative project with Revividal, Starodub, TU/e, and Hanze University of Applied Sciences. The overall research aims to develop a biodegradable gastric device from renewable, food-grade biomolecular polymers. The project will demonstrate circularity, ensure product safety, and assess regulatory implications in preparation for future clinical studies. This device offers a non‑fossil, biodegradable alternative to current non‑degradable gastric balloons and single‑use drugs, contributing to the fight against obesity.

Your Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct research on biopolymer/polysaccharide structures and their application in the gastric device.
• Collaborate with project partners, ensuring excellent communication and coordination.
• Contribute to the teaching and research environment of the Food Chemistry chair.
• Assist colleagues in analytical work and structured problem‑solving.
• Prepare academic publications and project reports.

Where You Will Work

The project is embedded within the chair of Food Chemistry, led by Prof. dr. ir. Jean‑Paul Vincken, and is part of the Carbohydrates, Biomass & Enzymes theme led by Dr. ir. Mirjam Kabel.

Qualifications and Competences

• PhD in Food Chemistry, Biopolymer Science, or a closely related field.
• Strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills and motivation to deepen understanding of detailed biopolymer/polysaccharide structures.
• Affinity for collaboration with industry.
• Good oral communication and excellent academic writing skills.
• Structured working style and affinity for analytics.
• Willingness to assist others in a research and teaching environment.
• English proficiency at CEFR C1 level (or equivalent).

What We Offer

• A competitive gross salary between €3.546 and €5.538 per month (scale 10 CAO‑NU) for a full‑time working week of 38 hours, depending on experience.
• Excellent pension scheme and other employee benefits under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities.
• Initially a one‑year contract, with possible extension for the project duration based on performance and organisational circumstances.
• An international, open working environment on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands.
• Support with visa applications, housing, bank accounts, dual‑career programmes, and schooling for international employees.
• Potential tax exemption on part of the salary for the first five years in the Netherlands (for eligible international staff).

How to Apply

Submit your motivation letter via the online application system (link not included). Only applications received through the official WUR website will be considered. Additional files such as grades and transcripts are not required at this stage.

Application deadline: Monday, 10 August 2026.
First interviews: Scheduled for mid‑September 2026.
Internal candidates: Preferred to apply before 12 July 2026.

For more information about the position, contact Dr. ir. Mirjam Kabel (associate professor) via email: [email protected]. For procedural questions, contact Evelien Janssen (Corporate Recruiter) at [email protected].

Selection Procedure

An assessment may be part of the selection process. Wageningen University & Research values diversity and inclusion; we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

About Wageningen University & Research

WUR is a leading international university and research centre in life sciences, with roughly 30 branches, 7,600 employees, 13,100 students, and over 150,000 participants in lifelong learning. The mission is “To explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life.” We create a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated. No employment agencies, please.

Original vacancy