We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate researcher in Regional Transitions with (some) experience who can enrich our team with a fresh perspective and the right expertise. Do you want to contribute to enabling the necessary transitions that come together in the region, both domestically and internationally? Then apply now!

As a Researcher in Regional Transitions within the Regional Development and Spatial Use Team, you will work on the various transitions that come together in regional developments, both urban and rural. Think of the agricultural transition, the energy transition, climate adaptation, and the spatial and social issues that arise from these. You have an integrated view with the necessary knowledge about policy, governance, and social and spatial issues. With this perspective and knowledge, you contribute to solutions for both the short and long term. You do this by working in a team towards a transformative and systemic approach with partners in the region (public and private, knowledge partners, and societal parties) and in dialogue with society.

Our team
The Regional Development and Spatial Usage team consists of a highly varied and interdisciplinary group of researchers, ready to assist regions, cities, and areas with the mentioned transitions. In a collaborative search with governments, companies, and area partners, we work on a practical knowledge base and methods necessary to enable the transitions. A knowledge base that integrates knowledge and brings together and mobilizes stakeholders; a knowledge base that is not only spatial-physical or spatial-economic in nature but also focuses on policy, collaboration, and people: integral and systemic.

The joint challenge
Within our team, you will contribute to Dutch and European research projects where the various transitions are central or come together. This ranges from European projects within the Mission on Climate Adaptation to policy-supporting research around the agricultural transition, the energy transition, or a combination thereof. Highly varied and with a clear focus on enabling (mission-driven) policy.

We are looking for a driven and enthusiastic mid-level colleague with:

• A university education in spatial planning, public administration, social geography, innovation science, or another relevant field
• At least 4 to 8 years of relevant work experience in policy and governance in advisory projects or research on regional transitions
• A demonstrable relevant portfolio in the Netherlands. Additionally, work experience in projects within Europe or beyond is a plus.
• Affinity for functioning in partner networks and/or a governance environment
• Proven networking skills and a relevant network
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Good command of Dutch and English

Above all, you are a true team player in multi- and interdisciplinary projects. In our international work environment, communication is increasingly in English. For this position, a C1 language level is required.
You see that there are plenty of challenges for you. These challenges can also be seen as development opportunities. So, if you do not yet have the track record required in the vacancy but do have solid work experience, we would also like to invite you to apply.

Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include:

• working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance;
• the option to accrue additional compensation hours by working more;
• sabbatical leave, study leave, and partially paid parental leave;
• there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee;
• a fixed December bonus of 8,3%;
• excellent pension scheme.

In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will of course receive a good salary. We offer, depending on your experience, a competitive gross salary of between €3,088,- and €5,737,- for a full-time working week of 36 hours, in accordance with the CLA Wageningen Research (scale 10-11). Additionally, a contract for 32 hours can be discussed. You will initially receive a one-year contract, which will be extended to an open-ended contract upon in case of unchanged circumstances.

Wageningen University & Research encourages internal advancement opportunities and mobility with an internal recruitment policy. There are plenty of options for personal initiative in a learning environment, and we provide excellent training opportunities. We are offering a multi-faceted position in an international environment with a pleasant and open working atmosphere.

You are going to work at the greenest and most innovative campus in Holland and with your work you have a clear and positive impact on society. At WUR we work on the most pressing challenges of our time, like climate change and feeding the world in a sustainable way.

Coming from abroad
Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large international community and a lot to offer to international employees.

Because we expect you to work and live in the Netherlands our team of advisors on Dutch immigration procedures will help you with the visa application procedures for yourself and, if applicable, for your family.
Feeling welcome also has everything to do with being well informed. Wageningen University & Research's International Community page contains practical information about what we can do to support international employees and students coming to Wageningen. Furthermore, we can assist you with any additional advice and information about for example helping your partner to find a job, housing, or schooling. Finally, certain categories of international staff may be eligible for a tax exemption on a part of their salary during the first five years in the Netherlands.

Wageningen University & Research

The mission of Wageningen University & Research is “To explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life”. Under the banner Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen University and the specialised research institutes of the Wageningen Research Foundation have joined forces in contributing to finding solutions to important questions in the domain of healthy food and living environment. With its roughly 30 branches, 7,600 employees (6,700 fte) and 13,100 students and over 150,000 participants to WUR’s Life Long Learning, Wageningen University & Research is one of the leading organisations in its domain. The unique Wageningen approach lies in its integrated approach to issues and the collaboration between different disciplines.

Read the 5 reasons why your future colleagues enjoy working at WUR and watch the video below to get an idea of our green campus!

We will recruit for the vacancy ourselves, so no employment agencies please. However, sharing in your network is appreciated.

For more information about this position, please contact Bertram de Rooij, Team Lead Regional Development and Spatial, email bertram.derooij@wur.nl

For more information about the procedure, please contact Edgar Tijhuis, corporate recruiter, edgar.tijhuis@wur.nl

Do you want to apply?
You can apply directly using the apply button on the vacancy page on our website which will allow us to process your personal information with your approval.

This vacancy will be listed up to and including June 17th 2024. We hope to schedule the first job interviews soon afterwards.

Equal opportunities
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) employs a large number of people with very different backgrounds and qualities, who inspire and motivate each other. We want every talent to feel at home in our organisation and be offered the same career opportunities. We therefore especially welcome applications from people who are underrepresented at WUR. A good example of how WUR deals with inclusiveness can be read on the page working at WUR with a functional impairment.