Quantitative agricultural researcher

As a quantitative agricultural researcher, you will work with data and micro‑economic models related to primary agricultural sectors. Have you always wanted to study how investments made by farmers affect farm management, income, and the natural environment? Or how farmers can adjust their operations to improve water quality? Or what the effects of policy measures are on investments, farm management, and scale enlargement? In short: using data to substantiate the effects of changes at the farm level.

Wageningen Social & Economic Research is looking for a researcher who is skilled in both data analysis and in developing and applying our set of micro‑economic models.

In this position, you will analyse farm‑level data and work with micro‑economic models to gain insight into the effects of policies and farm‑level decisions in agriculture. You will contribute to analyses within the National Monitoring Network for Manure Policy Effects (LMM), which uses a large panel dataset of agricultural holdings. These data are used for data analysis, econometric analyses, and model‑based simulations and optimisation at the farm level. For analyses and model development, you will work with programming languages such as R, Python, and GAMS. You will work with existing micro‑economic simulation, optimisation, and emission models, which you will apply, expand, and further develop depending on the research question. You are able to interpret your results, apply them, and place them in context. You will collaborate with fellow researchers within Wageningen University & Research as well as with external knowledge partners.

You will be part of the expertise group “Performance & Impact Agrosectors”, one of the twelve groups within Wageningen Social & Economic Research. This group consists of around 40 enthusiastic professionals committed to a more sustainable world, using their knowledge of sustainable agriculture and a vital rural area. We conduct economic sector studies and provide independent advice based on scientific insights. Our projects are diverse, ranging from monitoring and scenario studies, measuring sustainability performance of sectors and farms, to policy evaluations and explorations. We make intensive use of the economic/technical farm‑level data from our own Farm Accountancy Data Network (BIN).

Would you like to use your knowledge and skills to contribute to sustainable agriculture and a healthy countryside? Then apply now for the position of (Junior) Quantitative Agricultural Researcher at Wageningen Social & Economic Research!

• We are looking for someone with a completed degree in agricultural economics, agronomy (HBO or Master’s level), or data management with knowledge of the agricultural sector.
• Affinity with and preferably experience in the agricultural sector—especially arable farming and livestock farming—is essential. Up‑to‑date practical knowledge of farm management and sustainability initiatives in agricultural sectors is an advantage.
• You are motivated to develop and apply our micro‑economic models.
• Knowledge of programming languages (Python, R, and GAMS) or a strong willingness to learn them.
• You will work in both a Dutch and international environment, where proficiency in both languages is important. Therefore, a C1 level in both Dutch and English is required. If you do not yet meet this level, you can take courses at our Wageningen in’to Language centre.
• We are looking for someone who is accurate, has strong analytical skills, and is both relationship‑ and results‑oriented.

We understand that you may not meet all the requirements, but if you have sufficient interest and experience in both agriculture and data analysis, we still encourage you to apply. You will have plenty of opportunities for challenge and development.

When it comes to employment conditions, Wageningen University & Research has a lot to offer. Highlights from our CLA include: • working hours that can be arranged in consultation, allowing for an optimal work–life balance; 
• sabbatical leave, study leave and partially paid parental leave; 
• a strong focus on vitality, including access to the on‑campus sports facilities at an attractive rate; 
• a structural year‑end bonus of 8.3%; 
• an excellent pension scheme through ABP.

These excellent secondary employment conditions naturally come with a suitable salary. Depending on your experience, we offer a market‑competitive salary ranging from a minimum of €3.399,- to a maximum of €6.228,- for a full‑time 36‑hour work week, in accordance with the Wageningen Research CLA (scale 10–11). A contract starting from 24 hours per week is negotiable.

Regarding your contract, we initially offer a one‑year appointment which if possible within the organisational and financial context may be extended upon good performance. We offer you a temporary contract for the duration of one year. Of course, we are happy to discuss any questions you may have about this.

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

You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment. For 20 consecutive years, we have been voted the “best university” in the Netherlands, something we are proud of.

For more information about the position, please contact Mark Manshanden, Coordinator, via email: mark.manshanden@wur.nl.

Questions about the procedure? Please contact jouke van Oostenbrugge, corporate recruiter, via email jouke.vanoostenbrugge@wur.nl.

Click the application button on our website. Only applications submitted through our website will be considered. You can apply until Monday april 20th 2026

An assessment may be included as part of the selection process.

Wageningen University & Research (WUR) attaches great importance to diversity and inclusion. We believe that different perspectives lead to innovative solutions. We therefore strive to create a working environment where everyone feels welcome, safe and valued, regardless of background, identity or experience. Together, we build a culture in which every unique contribution strengthens the success of our organisation.

​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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