Leiden University is offering PhD Position on Nature-based Solutions in Urban Waterbodies for the academic session 2025/2026. The award is open to overseas high achieving students.

Eligibility for the PhD position at Leiden University requires applicants to hold a master’s degree in a relevant field such as ecology or environmental sciences, with a strong background in aquatic ecology or field research.

Founded in 1575, Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and renowned for its rich academic heritage and excellence in research and education. Located in the picturesque city of Leiden, it offers a vibrant international environment with students and staff from over 120 countries. The university is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, covering a wide range of fields such as humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and law.

Application Deadline: 19 January 2025

Brief Description

• University or Organization: Leiden University
• Department: Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Department of Environmental Biology
• Course Level: PhD
• Award: Salary ranging from €2,872 to €3,670 gross per month (full-time)
• Access Mode: Online
• Number of Awards: NA
• Nationality: International
• The Award Can Be Taken in: the Netherlands

Eligibility

• Eligible Countries: Applications are open to students from all nationalities.
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in environmental sciences, focusing on nature-based solutions in urban waterbodies.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must:
• Have completed an MSc in a relevant field (e.g., ecology, environmental sciences) or demonstrate a strong affinity with aquatic ecology or field research.
• Possess a good understanding of aquatic ecology in urban settings and socio-ecological interactions.
• Show strong skills in statistical analyses, data management, visualization, and coding (e.g., R).
• Demonstrate prior experience in fieldwork and laboratory techniques (preferably aquatic).
• Exhibit a collaborative mindset, good communication skills, and enthusiasm for co-creating research with societal stakeholders.
• Have proficiency in English (written and spoken). Proficiency in Dutch or willingness to learn within the first two years is expected.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their application via the online recruitment system. Email submissions will not be considered.

Required documents include:

1. A cover letter (max 1 page) detailing motivation and suitability for the project.
2. A CV (max 2 pages excluding publication list), including names and contact details of two potential references.
3. A list of publications (if applicable).

The deadline for submission is 19 January 2025. Interviews will take place during the week of 3 February 2025. If unavailable during this period, mention it in the cover letter.

For further details, contact Dr. Alena Gsell at [email protected].

Benefits

• A 1-year position with the possibility of extension to 4 years, contingent on performance.
• Attractive salary based on the Dutch Universities Collective Labour Agreement.
• Additional benefits include holiday (8%) and end-of-year bonuses (8.3%), training opportunities, career development, and sabbatical leave.
• International staff may qualify for a 30% tax reduction.
• Support for immigration procedures and integration in the Netherlands, including assistance with visa applications for applicants and their families.

Apply Now