PhD position Development of AI Tools for optimization of breeding programs

Wageningen University & Research’s Animal Sciences Group (ASG) is launching a new investment programme centred on the digital transformation of the animal sciences. The programme initiative aims to further strengthen knowledge and methods in data-driven research, data science and artificial intelligence (AI). Seven PhD tracks form the core of the programme and will be carried out jointly by Wageningen BioVeterinary Research (WBVR), Wageningen Livestock Research (WLR) and Wageningen Marine Research (WMR), in close collaboration with the graduate school WIAS and Wageningen University.

The PhDs work under a single theme: “Digital Biology – Integrating Behaviour, Health and Biodiversity in Animal Science”.

The ‘Digital Biology’ programme focuses on developing and applying digital technologies (AI, sensors, modelling, data fusion) to better understand and predict the behaviour, health, biodiversity of animals and improve breeding program design.

Together, the PhD candidates strive for a better understanding of digital solution in animal science and how behaviour, genetic predisposition, pathogens, health and environmental stimuli jointly determine how animals function, adapt and contribute to ecosystems, and how this knowledge informs breeding program design and optimization.

You will work here

The research is embedded within the chair Animal Breeding and Genomics, and member of the Wageningen Livestock Research team led by Prof. Roel Veerkamp. You will be co-supervised by Dr. Torsten Pook (WUR-ABG), Prof. Dr. Roel Veerkamp (WUR-ABG), Prof. Dr. Mario Calus (WUR-ABG). https://www.wur.nl/en/chair-groups/animal-breeding-and-genomics

• a highly motivated person with a strong interest in developing and applying reinforcement learning and stochastic simulation to optimize animal breeding programmes and support sustainable food production;
• a strong interest in genomic prediction, quantitative genetics and breeding programme simulation, preferably with experience in R and/or the MoBPS package;
• a desire to further develop advanced computational, modelling and algorithmic research skills, and to translate methodological developments into practical breeding applications;
• high-level communication, scientific writing and presentation skills;
• fluency in spoken and written English;
• the ability to work in close contact with industry and breeding organisations;
• the ability to work effectively as part of a large international and interdisciplinary team of students and researchers;
• the ability to work independently.

You also possess: 

• a successfully completed MSc degree in Animal Breeding and Genomics, Informatics, Mathematics, or related fields;
• experience in at least one language: R, Python, Julia (or similar).
• additional experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:
  • stochastic simulations
  • quantitative genetics
  • breeding programs
  • AI or machine learning
  • working with Linux and HPC systems

For this position your command of the English language is expected to be at C1 level. Sometimes it is necessary to submit an internationally recognised Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language. More information can be found here.

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;
• 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 year-end bonus of 8,3%;
• excellent pension scheme.

In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will receive a fully funded PhD position and you will be offered a course program tailored to your needs and the research team. We offer a 4 year PhD Position.
The gross salary for the first year is € 3.059,– per month rising to € 3.881,-  in the fourth year in according to the Collective Labour Agreement Wageningen Research Foundation (scale P). This is based on a full-time working week of 36 hours. We offer a temporary contract which will be extended for the duration of the project if you perform well. 

Wageningen University & Research offers plenty of opportunities for growth and development, with a strong internal recruitment policy and excellent training programmes.

You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment.

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. 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.

For more information about the position, please contact Dr. Torsten Pook, researcher Animal Sciences Group, via email: torsten.pook@wur.nl or Dr. Esther Ellen, hiring manager, via email: esther.ellen@wur.nl
For more information about the procedure, please contact Dax Teunissen, corporate recruiter, by email: recruitment.asg@wur.nl

Ready 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. Only applications submitted through our website will be considered.

You can apply up to and including 22 February 2026. The first interviews are scheduled for 6, 10 and 17 March 2026.

Welcome, safe, and valued
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) highly values diversity and inclusion because we believe that different insights lead to innovative solutions. We create a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated, regardless of background, identity, or experience. Together, we are building a culture where everyone's unique contribution adds to the success of our organization.

​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.

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