PhD Student Position in Transforming Governance for Nature-Based Water Solutions, Netherlands

  •  PhD
  •  30-Jun-2025
  •   Netherlands
  • $$  Fully funded PhD position (€2,901 to €3,707 monthly salary)

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is inviting applicants to apply for a PhD Student Position in Transforming Governance for Nature-Based Water Solutions. The project focuses on nature-based solutions for climate-resilient water management, especially in drought-prone regions across Europe.

The position is open to domestic and international students at the university. Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant social science field such as Public Administration, Political Science, Environmental Governance, or Human Geography. They should have experience with qualitative research, strong communication skills, and an interest in sustainable water management. Proficiency in English at C1 level is required.

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is a world-leading institution in life sciences, focusing on healthy food and sustainable living environments. Located in the Netherlands, WUR is renowned for its interdisciplinary research, innovative education, and global impact. It consistently ranks as the top university in the Netherlands and is known for its international outlook, green campus, and commitment to addressing global challenges through science and collaboration.

Wageningen Universiteit Information

Wageningen Universiteit Grants

PhD Student Position in Transforming Governance for Nature-Based Water Solutions, Netherlands Founded in 1918, Wageningen Universiteit (Wageningen University) is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the medium-sized town of Wageningen (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Gelderland. Officially accredited and/or recognized by the Ministerie van Onderwijs, Cultuur en Wetenschap, Nederland (Ministry of Education, Culture and Science, Netherlands), Wageningen Universiteit (WU) is a medium-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 9,000-9,999 students) coeducational higher education institution. Wageningen Universiteit (WU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study matrix below for further details.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Eligible Countries: All nationalities are eligible to apply.

  • Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in public administration, political science, environmental policy and governance, spatial planning, human geography, or related disciplines.

  • Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

    • Hold a Master’s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Environmental Policy and Governance, Spatial Planning, Human Geography, or a closely related field.

    • Have foundational social science research skills (conceptual and empirical).

    • Show proven ability to interact effectively with academic and societal stakeholders.

    • Be familiar with qualitative research methods (e.g., interviews, workshops, participant observation).

    • Demonstrate willingness to learn systems analysis techniques.

    • Possess strong communication and organizational skills.

    • Have prior knowledge in sustainable land and water management.

    • Be proficient in English at the C1 level.

Offered Benefits

  • Fully funded four-year PhD contract.

  • Gross monthly salary ranging from €2,901 (year 1) to €3,707 (year 4).

  • Tailored training and PhD course program.

  • Partially paid parental leave and flexible working hours.

  • Access to sports facilities and wellness programs on campus.

  • 8.3% year-end bonus and excellent Dutch university pension scheme.

  • Support with relocation, visa application, housing, and integration for international candidates.

  • A dynamic, impact-driven academic environment within the renowned Wageningen Centre for Sustainability Governance.

Application Process

  • Application Procedure:

    • Apply via the official WUR vacancy portal using the application button.

    • Before the interview, applicants will be asked to submit a short writing assignment related to the post.

    • For further inquiries, contact:

      • Dr. Kirsty Holstead ( )

      • Dr. Nicolas Jager ( )

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