Are you driven to understand the effects of fire on tropical forests? Wageningen University & Research offers two exciting PhD positions on Fire Resilience of Amazon Forests. Work alongside leading experts, conduct field studies in Bolivia, and contribute to vital ecological knowledge shaping the future of sustainable forest management.
Applicants must hold a master’s degree in biology, forest and nature conservation, or plant sciences, and have strong English communication skills. Experience in forest ecology or tree physiology, fieldwork in remote areas, and quantitative data analysis is required.
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Award
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Application Process
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( votes)Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is one of the world’s leading institutions in life sciences, renowned for its focus on food, environment, and sustainability. Located in the Netherlands, WUR combines education and cutting-edge research to address global challenges related to nature, agriculture, and climate.
Application Deadline: 26 November 2025
Brief Description
- University or Organization: Wageningen University & Research (WUR)
- Department: Forest Ecology and Forest Management (FEM) Chair Group
- Course Level: PhD (Doctoral Research)
- Award: Fully Funded PhD Position (Salary + Benefits)
- Access Mode: Online
- Number of Awards: 2
- Nationality: International and Domestic Students
- The award can be taken in: the Netherlands (with fieldwork in Bolivia)
Eligibility
- Eligible Countries: Open to applicants from all nationalities.
- Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded for PhD research in forest ecology, fire ecology, or related disciplines offered by Wageningen University.
- Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must:
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Hold an MSc degree in Biology, Forest & Nature Conservation, or Plant Sciences.
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Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English (as per WUR language requirements).
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Have knowledge of tree morphology and physiology.
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Show experience in forest ecological or eco-physiological fieldwork; leadership in such work is an advantage.
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Possess skills in quantitative analysis and large dataset management.
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Exhibit excellent communication and collaboration skills.
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Have an interest in fire ecology and climate change impacts on tropical forests.
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Knowledge of Spanish and prior experience with forest fire studies are advantageous.
How to Apply
Applicants must submit the following via Wageningen University’s official application portal:
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Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
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Motivation Letter (max. 400 words) clearly indicating preference for one or both PhD positions and acknowledging any AI use.
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Names and contact details of 2–3 referees
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Mandatory online form accessible through the vacancy link on the WUR website.
For more information, contact:
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Scientific queries: Dr. Masha van der Sande – [email protected]
Benefits
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Fully funded 4-year PhD position.
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Gross monthly salary: €3,059 (Year 1) rising to €3,881 (Year 4).
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Temporary contract (18 months) extendable based on performance.
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Tailored PhD training and development courses.
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Excellent work-life balance and supportive international environment.
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Partially paid parental leave, year-end bonus (8.3%), and pension scheme.
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Access to sports and vitality programs on campus.
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Visa and relocation assistance for international candidates.
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Opportunities for field research in Bolivia and collaboration within international research networks.
