Two Associate Professor Jobs in Plant-Pathogen Interactions at Wageningen University, Netherlands

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) in the Netherlands is inviting applications for two Associate Professor positions in novel concepts in plant-pathogen interactions. The appointments are based in the Laboratory of Phytopathology and are aimed at experienced researchers who want to develop innovative research programs and contribute to the future direction of phytopathology.

The successful candidates will work on the frontier of plant disease research, disease resilience, pathogen adaptation, quantitative disease biology, predictive modelling, or mechanistic plant-pathogen interactions. Researchers with complementary expertise in theoretical phytopathology, bioinformatics, quantitative disease immunity, structural biology, or other cutting-edge approaches are encouraged to apply.

This opportunity is particularly relevant to established researchers who want to strengthen their independent academic profile while contributing to research, teaching, mentoring, collaboration, and research funding at an internationally oriented university.

About the Associate Professor Positions

As an Associate Professor in the Laboratory of Phytopathology, you will contribute to developing new concepts for understanding plant-pathogen interactions across multiple scales. These may include the individual plant, population, and ecosystem levels.

The role combines scientific leadership with teaching, supervision, mentoring, networking, and research-funding activities. You will be expected to connect with researchers across Wageningen University and build an international network of collaborators.

The laboratory is looking for researchers who can complement its existing expertise while helping establish new research directions in phytopathology.

Priority Research Areas

The specific research topics that are considered complementary to the current research group include:

• Theoretical phytopathology.
• Predictive modelling and bioinformatics.
• Quantitative disease immunity.
• Structural biology.

Researchers working on other innovative theories, methodologies, and approaches in phytopathology are also encouraged to apply.

Your Responsibilities

The Associate Professor will contribute to both the scientific and academic development of the Laboratory of Phytopathology.

Key responsibilities include developing novel concepts in plant-pathogen interactions and establishing research directions that complement the expertise already present in the laboratory. The successful candidate will also contribute to the funding of the research group and participate in the development of research collaborations.

Teaching and academic supervision are important parts of the position. Responsibilities include contributing to the coordination and innovation of teaching, supervising PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers, and mentoring and coaching scientific staff.

You will also be expected to develop national and international research networks and establish collaborations with researchers within Wageningen University as well as external academic, industry, and societal partners.

Research Environment and Team

You will join the Laboratory of Phytopathology at Wageningen University, an interdisciplinary and international research environment focused on plant disease and plant-pathogen interactions.

The permanent staff currently consists of five researchers, two teachers, and six support staff. The successful candidates will become part of this research community and contribute to its further academic development.

The position offers opportunities to connect research across disciplines and to build collaborations within Wageningen University & Research and with external partners.

Candidate Profile

Wageningen University & Research is seeking an experienced and innovative phytopathology researcher at Associate Professor level who has the ambition to further develop both their own academic position and the research profile of the Laboratory of Phytopathology.

Candidates should have a clear vision for conducting research at the frontier of international phytopathology and demonstrate a strong commitment to teaching and academic supervision.

Experience with the international research-funding environment is also important for this position.

Required and Desired Qualities

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A clear vision for advancing international phytopathology research.
• Strong communication, mentoring, and coaching skills.
• The potential to act as an ambassador for the research group.
• A track record of initiating or participating in large research consortia and Public-Private Partnerships.
• Strong national and international networking abilities.
• The ability to translate scientific research and connect research outcomes with industry and wider society.
• Interest or experience in applying research to relevant crops and agricultural systems.
• Excellent English-language communication skills.

Because WUR operates in a highly international environment, excellent spoken and written English is essential for this position.

Teaching, Mentoring, and Academic Leadership

The role extends beyond individual research. Associate Professors will contribute to teaching and supervision while helping develop the next generation of researchers.

You will contribute to the supervision of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, mentor scientific staff, and participate in teaching coordination and innovation. This combination of research, teaching, and academic leadership makes the position suitable for researchers who are ready to expand their role within an international university environment.

Salary and Employment Conditions

Wageningen University & Research offers a range of employment benefits under the applicable collective labour agreements for Dutch universities.

The salary for this position is between €6,764 and €8,992 gross per month for a full-time working week of 38 hours, depending on experience and in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU), scale 13/14.

A working arrangement between 32 and 38 hours per week can be discussed.

The initial contract is for one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and the financial situation of the organisation.

Additional employment benefits include:

• Sabbatical leave.
• Study leave.
• Partially paid parental leave.
• Flexible working arrangements designed to support work-life balance.
• Access to campus sports facilities for a small fee.
• An 8.3% fixed year-end bonus.
• An excellent pension scheme.

Internal candidates should consult their HR Business Partner regarding the specific conditions applicable to their current employment situation.

Support for International Researchers

Wageningen University & Research has a large international community and provides support for researchers and employees relocating to the Netherlands.

WUR advisors can assist international employees with Dutch immigration and visa procedures for themselves and, where applicable, their families.

Researchers arriving with a partner can also access a Dual Career group program through the Welcome Center. This program provides support related to Dutch culture, the labour market, and potential employment opportunities for partners.

The university’s international community resources also provide practical information for employees moving to Wageningen. Support can include guidance relating to housing, banking, schooling, and other aspects of settling in the Netherlands.

Certain categories of international employees may also qualify for a tax exemption on part of their salary during their first five years in the Netherlands, subject to applicable rules and eligibility requirements.

Diversity and Inclusion

Wageningen University & Research values diversity and inclusion and aims to create a workplace where employees feel welcome, safe, and appreciated.

The university states that different perspectives and experiences contribute to innovative solutions. Applications are welcomed from candidates with diverse backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

About Wageningen University & Research

Wageningen University & Research has the mission “To explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life.”

The organisation brings together Wageningen University and specialised research institutes of the Wageningen Research Foundation. Together, they work on major challenges involving healthy food, sustainable living environments, agriculture, nature, and life sciences.

WUR has approximately 30 branches, 7,600 employees (6,700 FTE), 13,100 students, and more than 150,000 participants in its Life Long Learning activities, according to the vacancy information.

A defining feature of the Wageningen approach is its integration of different disciplines and collaboration across research areas to address complex scientific and societal questions.

Application Process

Interested candidates should apply through the APPLY NOW

The vacancy will be reviewed on a regular basis, meaning that the position may be filled before the stated closing date.

An assessment may form part of the selection procedure.

Application Deadline

The vacancy information gives 10 October 2026 as the application deadline in the main application section. The vacancy metadata separately lists 11 October 2026 as the “Apply before” date.

Internal candidates are encouraged to apply before 19 September 2026.

Contact Information

For questions about the position, contact:

Willem Jan de Kogel
Hiring Manager
Email: willemjan.dekogel@wur.nl

For questions about the recruitment procedure, contact:

Dax Teunissen
Corporate Recruiter
Email: vacaturemeldingen.psg@wur.nl

Detail	Information
Position	Two Associate Professors – Novel Concepts in Plant-Pathogen Interactions
Institution	Wageningen University & Research
Research Group	Laboratory of Phytopathology
Location	Wageningen, Netherlands
Professional Field	Research & Science
Academic Level	Associate Professor
Education Level	Master’s degree / Doctorate
Research Areas	Phytopathology, plant-pathogen interactions, disease resilience, pathogen adaptation, quantitative disease biology
Complementary Topics	Theoretical phytopathology, predictive modelling, bioinformatics, quantitative disease immunity, structural biology
Working Hours	32–38 hours per week
Salary	€6,764–€8,992 gross per month
Salary Scale	CAO-NU scale 13/14
Initial Contract	1 year
Extension	Possible subject to satisfactory performance and organisational financial situation
Year-End Bonus	8.3%
Application Deadline	10 October 2026 in the vacancy text; metadata states 11 October 2026
Internal Candidate Deadline	19 September 2026
Location	Wageningen, Netherlands
Hiring Manager	Willem Jan de Kogel
Recruitment Contact	Dax Teunissen

Frequently Asked Questions

What positions are being advertised?

Wageningen University & Research is advertising two Associate Professor positions in novel concepts in plant-pathogen interactions within its Laboratory of Phytopathology.

What research areas are relevant to these positions?

The vacancy identifies theoretical phytopathology, predictive modelling and bioinformatics, quantitative disease immunity, and structural biology as complementary research areas. Applicants working on other innovative approaches in phytopathology are also encouraged to apply.

Who is eligible for the Associate Professor positions?

The positions are aimed at experienced and innovative phytopathology researchers at Associate Professor level who have research, teaching, networking, mentoring, and funding experience.

Is teaching part of the role?

Yes. The successful candidates will contribute to teaching, teaching innovation and coordination, and the supervision of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers.

Is research funding experience required?

Experience navigating the international research-funding landscape is an important part of the candidate profile. The role also includes contributing to the funding of the research group and developing research consortia and collaborations.

What is the salary?

The stated salary is €6,764 to €8,992 gross per month for a full-time 38-hour working week, depending on experience and under CAO-NU salary scale 13/14.

Can the position be part-time?

Yes. A working arrangement of 32 to 38 hours per week can be discussed.

How long is the initial contract?

The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal depending on satisfactory performance and the organisation’s financial situation.

Where is the job located?

The positions are based at Wageningen University & Research in Wageningen, Netherlands, within the Laboratory of Phytopathology.

Does WUR support international employees?

Yes. WUR provides support with immigration and visa procedures and offers international employees access to information and assistance relating to relocation. A Dual Career program is also available for eligible partners.

What is the application deadline?

The main vacancy text states Saturday, 10 October 2026. The vacancy metadata states 11 October 2026. Applicants should verify the deadline on the official WUR application page before submitting their application.