Job for Researchers: Animal Ecology Researcher (Farmland Birds) — Wageningen University & Research, Netherlands

About the role

Wageningen Environmental Research (WENR) is seeking an Animal Ecology Researcher to strengthen its applied research on farmland birds in agricultural landscapes. You will work within the Animal Ecology team, conducting fieldwork, analysing data, and contributing to reports and scientific publications. The role involves assessing restoration measures, understanding ecosystem functioning, and placing species-specific insights into a broader ecological context. You will also help identify new project opportunities and may eventually take the lead in acquisition activities.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct breeding bird surveys and locate nests of meadow and arable farmland birds
• Analyse and interpret research results, and contribute to Dutch-language reports and peer-reviewed scientific papers
• Work in project teams on monitoring, protection, and restoration of biodiversity in agricultural areas
• Collaborate with colleagues across disciplines, including mammalogy, ornithology, entomology, reptile and amphibian ecology, soil ecology, and ecological genetics
• Contribute to identifying and developing new project opportunities, and eventually lead acquisition efforts

Your qualifications

• Academic level of thinking and working, with a relevant university degree in ecology, biology, or a related field
• Strong awareness of current developments in biodiversity, nature conservation, and (nature-inclusive) agriculture
• Knowledge of the ecology and taxonomy of farmland birds, and associated research techniques
• Willingness to work on biodiversity issues covering a broader range of species groups in agricultural landscapes
• Team player who looks beyond their own discipline and collaborates in interdisciplinary settings
• Experience with QGIS and ecological statistics is an advantage
• Project management experience and experience working in a project-based environment is an advantage
• Excellent communication skills; fluent in both Dutch and English (written and spoken)
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and policy (e.g., Dutch Agri-Environment and Climate Management Scheme, ANLb, and the Nature Restoration Regulation) is a clear advantage

What we offer

• A competitive gross salary between €3,399 and €5,478 per month for a full-time working week of 36 hours, in accordance with CLA Wageningen Research (scale 10)
• A contract for 32 hours per week is negotiable
• Initially a one-year contract, with the possibility of extension based on good performance and organisational circumstances
• Excellent pension scheme, 30 days of holiday leave per year (based on 36 hours), and flexible working hours
• A pleasant working atmosphere with time for personal development and a proper work-life balance

How to apply

Apply via the application button on the Wageningen University & Research website. Only applications submitted through the official portal will be considered. Internal candidates are preferred to apply before 20 July 2026. The external application deadline is 10 August 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so the position may be filled before the closing date.

For questions about the position, please contact Tim Visser, senior researcher. For procedural questions, contact Jouke van Oostenbrugge, Corporate Recruiter.

Wageningen University & Research values diversity and inclusion and strives for a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated.

Original vacancy