Freshwater Ecology Researcher Position at Wageningen University & Research, Netherlands (2026)
The successful candidate will contribute to research projects involving freshwater habitats, macroinvertebrates, wetland ecology, salinization, drought, biodiversity monitoring, and ecological restoration. The role combines fieldwork, data analysis, literature reviews, and communicating scientific findings to water managers, policymakers, and researchers.
The position offers a gross monthly salary of €3,554 to €5,698, depending on experience, for a full-time working week of 36 hours. A 32-hour working arrangement can also be discussed. The initial contract is for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
The application deadline is 9 November 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so the position may be filled before the closing date.
Freshwater Ecology Researcher Position: Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Freshwater Ecology Researcher |
| Employer | Wageningen University & Research (WUR) |
| Research institute | Wageningen Environmental Research (WENR) |
| Research group | Freshwater Ecology Research Group |
| Team | Water & Food Team |
| Location | Wageningen, Netherlands; project work takes place within the Netherlands |
| Employment type | Initially one-year contract |
| Working hours | 36 hours per week full-time; 32 hours may be discussed |
| Gross monthly salary | €3,554–€5,698, depending on experience |
| Salary scale | Scale 10, CLA Wageningen Research |
| Contract renewal | Possible, subject to satisfactory performance and the organisation’s financial situation |
| English proficiency | B2 level required |
| Application deadline | 9 November 2026 |
| Application method | Online through the official WUR vacancy page |
About the Position
Are you an ecologist interested in contributing to the restoration of Dutch freshwater ecosystems? Do you have knowledge of freshwater ecology, experience in ecological research, and an interest in translating research findings into practical solutions?
As a Freshwater Ecology Researcher, you will work with colleagues on projects for water managers and policymakers. Your responsibilities will include field research, desk studies, analysing ecological data, reviewing scientific literature, and preparing reports and presentations.
The research focuses on current challenges in Dutch freshwater ecology and aims to support the restoration and improvement of aquatic ecosystems. You will work in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with researchers and other professionals across a range of projects.
Key Research Areas
The position covers several important topics in freshwater ecology, including:
Freshwater habitat restoration: Investigating the effectiveness of restoration and management measures in different freshwater environments.
Macroinvertebrate reintroduction: Studying approaches to reintroducing aquatic macroinvertebrate species.
Salinization and drought: Assessing how increasing salinity and drought affect freshwater biodiversity.
Ecological monitoring: Evaluating innovative monitoring techniques and their usefulness in freshwater research.
Monitoring and assessment systems: Contributing to the development of systems used to monitor and assess ecological conditions.
Depending on the project, you may conduct fieldwork in streams and peatland areas, analyse existing datasets provided by water authorities, or carry out literature reviews. All project work takes place within the Netherlands.
Key Responsibilities
The Freshwater Ecology Researcher will contribute to research from the initial investigation through to the interpretation and communication of results.
1. Conduct fieldwork and ecological research
You will participate in field investigations in freshwater habitats, including streams and peatland areas. These activities will support research into ecosystem functioning, biodiversity, and the effectiveness of restoration and management measures.
2. Analyse ecological data
The role includes analysing existing datasets, including information from water authorities, to investigate freshwater ecosystem conditions and assess ecological responses to environmental pressures.
3. Conduct literature reviews and desk studies
You will review relevant scientific literature and undertake desk-based research to support project objectives, interpret findings, and identify practical implications for freshwater management.
4. Support ecological restoration and monitoring
You will contribute to projects evaluating restoration measures, species reintroduction, the effects of salinization and drought, and innovative monitoring approaches. You may also help develop ecological monitoring and assessment systems.
5. Report and communicate research findings
You will analyse, report, and present research results to different audiences, particularly water managers, policymakers, and fellow researchers in the Netherlands. Strong communication skills will be important for translating scientific results into information that can support practical decisions.
6. Collaborate in multidisciplinary teams
You will work with researchers from different backgrounds within the Freshwater Ecology Research Group. Project teams may vary according to the topic and objectives of each assignment.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have a relevant background in ecology and an interest in the functioning and restoration of freshwater ecosystems.
The main requirements are outlined below.
Relevant degree: A degree in Ecology or a closely relevant field.
Freshwater ecosystem knowledge: Understanding of Dutch freshwater ecosystems and wetlands from a landscape ecology or systems ecology perspective.
Taxonomic expertise: Knowledge of one or more taxonomic groups, such as macroinvertebrates, plants, algae, birds, or ground beetles.
Research and analytical skills: Ability to analyse ecological data and interpret research results.
Scientific communication: Ability to report and present findings to different audiences, including researchers, water managers, and policymakers.
Organisational skills: Ability to plan work, manage responsibilities, and contribute to project delivery.
Independent and team-based working: A proactive, results-oriented approach and the ability to solve both practical and scientific problems.
English language proficiency: B2-level English is required.
Driving licence: Considered an advantage.
WUR recognises that candidates may not have experience in every aspect of the position. Applicants with solid relevant work experience who do not yet meet every element of the desired profile are still encouraged to apply.
The university also offers language development support through Wageningen in’to Language for employees who need help reaching the required English proficiency level.
Salary and Employment Benefits
Wageningen University & Research offers a gross monthly salary of €3,554 to €5,698, depending on experience. The salary follows scale 10 of the Collective Labour Agreement for Wageningen Research (CLA Wageningen Research).
The salary is based on a full-time working week of 36 hours. A 32-hour working arrangement can also be discussed.
Employment conditions include:
A competitive gross monthly salary.
A fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%.
An excellent pension scheme.
Working hours that can be discussed to support work-life balance.
Sabbatical leave and study leave.
Partially paid parental leave.
Access to campus sports facilities for a small fee.
Opportunities for professional development and internal mobility.
The initial appointment is for one year. Renewal may be possible depending on satisfactory performance and the organisation’s financial situation.
For more information, visit the official WUR terms of employment page.
International Applicants: Working in the Netherlands
Wageningen University & Research has an international working environment and welcomes employees from different backgrounds. Its research focuses on life sciences and challenges related to food, nature, and the living environment.
For international employees who need immigration support, WUR has a team of advisers who can help with visa application procedures for the employee and, where applicable, their family.
Additional support may include:
Guidance through the university’s international staff resources.
Advice from the Welcome Center on housing, opening a bank account, schooling, and other practical matters.
A Dual Career group programme for partners, helping them understand Dutch culture and the labour market and supporting their job search.
Information about possible tax exemptions for certain categories of international staff, subject to applicable conditions.
International applicants can find further information through WUR’s international staff information page and the Welcome Center Food Valley.
About Wageningen Environmental Research
The Freshwater Ecology Research Group is part of the Water & Food Team at Wageningen Environmental Research (WENR).
The group works to restore and improve aquatic ecosystems by developing, sharing, and applying scientific knowledge that supports water management and policy. Its work addresses practical environmental challenges and helps water managers and policymakers make informed decisions.
Wageningen University & Research combines the work of Wageningen University and specialised research institutes within the Wageningen Research Foundation. Its mission is to explore the potential of nature to improve quality of life.
With around 30 branches, approximately 7,600 employees, 13,100 students, and more than 150,000 participants in lifelong learning, WUR is an internationally leading organisation in its field. Its integrated, multidisciplinary approach brings together research and expertise to address challenges involving healthy food and the living environment.
How to Apply
Candidates interested in the Freshwater Ecology Researcher position should apply through the official Wageningen University & Research vacancy page.
Only applications submitted through the WUR website will be considered. Applications through other channels should not be treated as valid submissions.
Before applying, review the vacancy requirements and prepare your application materials according to the instructions provided on the official page.
Application deadline
9 November 2026
Applications are reviewed regularly, and the position may be filled before the deadline. Interested candidates are therefore encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Internal candidates were asked to apply before 17 October 2026.
Contact information
For questions about the position:
For questions about the recruitment procedure:
Official Application Link
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the Freshwater Ecology Researcher position?
It is a research position at Wageningen Environmental Research, part of Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands. The successful candidate will contribute to projects involving freshwater ecosystem restoration, biodiversity, ecological monitoring, and water management.
2. What is the salary for this position?
The gross monthly salary is €3,554–€5,698, depending on experience, based on a full-time working week of 36 hours and scale 10 of the CLA Wageningen Research.
3. What is the application deadline?
The closing date is 9 November 2026. Applications are assessed regularly, and the vacancy may be filled before the deadline.
4. What academic background is required?
A relevant degree in Ecology is required. Applicants should also have knowledge of Dutch freshwater ecosystems and wetlands from a landscape ecology or systems ecology perspective.
5. Is experience with specific organisms required?
Candidates should have knowledge of at least one taxonomic group relevant to freshwater or associated ecosystems. Examples include macroinvertebrates, plants, algae, birds, and ground beetles.
6. Is English proficiency required?
Yes. The vacancy requires English proficiency at B2 level. WUR offers language development support through Wageningen in’to Language where needed.
7. Is a driving licence compulsory?
A driving licence is considered an advantage, rather than a stated mandatory requirement.
8. Is the position full-time?
The full-time working week is 36 hours. A 32-hour arrangement can also be discussed with the employer.
9. How long is the employment contract?
The initial contract is for one year. Renewal may be possible depending on satisfactory performance and the organisation’s financial situation.
10. Can international applicants apply?
The vacancy information describes support for international employees who need Dutch immigration assistance. Applicants should review the official vacancy and contact WUR if they have questions about their individual eligibility or immigration circumstances.
11. What kind of research will the candidate conduct?
Projects may involve assessing restoration measures, reintroducing macroinvertebrates, studying the effects of salinization and drought on biodiversity, evaluating monitoring techniques, and developing ecological monitoring and assessment systems.
12. How can I apply?
Apply through the official WUR vacancy page and use the online application button associated with the Freshwater Ecology Researcher position. Applications submitted outside the website will not be considered.
Final Thoughts
The Freshwater Ecology Researcher position at Wageningen University & Research is an opportunity for ecology professionals who want to contribute to freshwater restoration, biodiversity conservation, and evidence-based water management in the Netherlands.
With a salary of €3,554–€5,698 per month, an initial one-year contract, and opportunities to work on varied ecological research projects, the role may suit candidates with relevant ecological knowledge, taxonomic expertise, and strong analytical and communication skills.
Interested applicants should review the official vacancy and submit their applications before 9 November 2026, keeping in mind that recruitment may conclude earlier if the position is filled.
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