Job for Researchers: Researcher biopolymers

About the role

Location: Wageningen, Netherlands
Professional field: Research & Science (incl. postdoc)
Hours: 32–36 hours per week
Salary range: €3,399–€6,228 gross per month (scale 10–11)

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is seeking a motivated and entrepreneurial researcher to strengthen biopolymer research projects through scientific expertise and business development activities.

You will be part of the Biorefinery and Sustainable Value Chains research group, which conducts applied scientific research for a circular bioeconomy with lower reliance on fossil resources and reduced CO₂ emissions. The group investigates biobased feedstocks and biopolymers, studying their structure and functionality to develop sustainable materials for construction, water purification, and personal care ingredients.

Working environment

You will work in dynamic, multidisciplinary project teams consisting of a project leader and one or more researchers. You will be involved in multiple projects simultaneously, so no two days are the same. Innovation and collaboration are central, and you will have opportunities to share ideas, develop professionally, and acquire new skills.

Responsibilities

• Support project leaders in formulating research questions and developing project proposals.
• Actively contribute to the acquisition of new projects.
• Maintain and expand a relevant network of industrial and academic partners.

Requirements

• Excellent command of Dutch (C1 level) and English (B2 level). Because of interaction with Dutch-speaking clients and stakeholders, applications without Dutch fluency will not be successful.
• Experience with applied research and collaboration with industry.
• Educational level: Master’s degree or doctorate.

What we offer

• A competitive gross monthly salary between €3,399 and €6,228 for a full-time working week of 36 hours, depending on experience, in accordance with the CLA Wageningen Research.
• Excellent pension scheme and good employment benefits.
• A contract for 32 hours per week may be discussed.
• An initial one-year contract, extendable on good performance and depending on organisational circumstances.
• Support for professional development and internal mobility.

About Wageningen University & Research

WUR is the university and research centre for life sciences. Its mission is “To explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life.” With roughly 30 branches, 7,600 employees, 13,100 students, and over 150,000 participants in lifelong learning, WUR is one of the leading organisations in its domain. WUR highly values diversity and inclusion and strives to create a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated.

How to apply

Apply by 31 August 2026 through the vacancy page on the WUR website; only applications submitted through the website will be considered. Internal candidates are preferred to apply before 26 July 2026. Feedback may be delayed due to summer holidays. An assessment may be part of the selection procedure. No employment agencies, please.

Contact

For more information about the position, contact Jan Jetten, manager Biorefinery & Sustainable Value Chains, at +31 317-485146 or [email protected]. For procedure questions, contact Rutger Voorrips, Corporate Recruiter, at [email protected].

Original vacancy