News
Sijmen Schoustra appointed as personal professor of microbial ecosystems at WUR
Researcher Sijmen Schoustra has been appointed by the Executive Board of Wageningen University & Research (WUR) as personal professor within the Laboratory of Genetics. With his chair, he focuses on the ecology and evolution of microbial ecosystems. He uses bacteria and fungi as model organisms to understand why some ecosystems are resilient while others collapse under changing conditions.
“Micro-organisms follow the same rules as larger ecosystems but are simpler to study. We investigate how ecological and evolutionary processes determine the extent to which a network of species can adapt to changes such as temperature differences or fluctuations in nutrient availability,” Schoustra explains. “With our research, we learn to understand ecosystem stability and, for example, how to make food safer and of higher quality.”
From theory to experiment
To date, most knowledge about how species interact with each other and their environment - known as eco-evolutionary dynamics - has been theoretical. Experimental research is scarce. Schoustra’s work changes this by operating both in the laboratory and in the field. “For our research, we use traditionally fermented African food and dead plant material,” says Schoustra. “This enables us to test scientific ideas directly and translate them into practical applications.”
Collaboration with local communities
In Zambia, researchers collaborate with local producers of mabisi, a traditional fermented milk drink beloved by the local population. The native ecosystem of bacteria and yeasts in mabisi forms a stable network that adapts well to changing conditions such as ambient temperature. By combining local knowledge with scientific methods, they gain new insights into the shelf life, flavour and health benefits of food.
Important role for women
“Women are often the driving force behind traditional mabisi fermentation. They manage the value chains - from production to sale - and possess the traditional knowledge required for producing the drink,” says Schoustra. “Thus, women play a crucial role in local economies in Zambia. Our research not only contributes to food safety but also strengthens female entrepreneurship in Africa.”
About Sijmen Schoustra
Sijmen Schoustra was born in The Hague. He studied food technology and
conducted PhD research in Wageningen, followed by postdoctoral work in Canada. Since 2011, he has been employed by Wageningen University & Research, and since 2014 he has also served as visiting lecturer at the University of Zambia. As of 1 June 2025, Schoustra has been appointed personal professor of microbial ecosystems at WUR.
Policy and practice
A spin-off from Schoustra’s research is a project on fungal resistance to azole antifungal agents. The results have led to new national and European guidelines. These guidelines enable more targeted use of azoles, preventing the emergence of resistant fungi and protecting vulnerable patients.
Important contribution
“Sijmen is a valuable asset within the Genetics chair group,” says chairholder leader Bas Zwaan. “He plays a central role in applying evolutionary knowledge to address societal challenges. His passion and clear vision for translating fundamental biological research to benefit society are evident in his research, teaching and public outreach. As his work connects multiple research groups within Wageningen University & Research, he makes an important contribution to WUR’s ambitions.”
Schoustra’s research group connects fundamental scientific questions with themes such as food safety, health and economic development. This work is carried out in close collaboration with partners in Africa, the Netherlands and beyond.