Assistant Professor: Ecology of Sustainable Agriculture

Assistant Professor in the ecology of agricultural production systems

Applicants are invited until July 10, 2026.

Overview

The Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML) at Leiden University seeks an assistant professor for a faculty appointment in the ecology or sustainability of agricultural production systems. The role combines research (40%), teaching (40%) and service (20%) and focuses on the ecological and biogeochemical impacts of human activities on agricultural systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and conduct original research on nutrient cycling, soil biodiversity, remote sensing or other relevant topics that complement CML’s current work in food systems and biodiversity.
• Secure research funding through national and international grant programmes (e.g., Horizon, NWA‑ORC) and support interdisciplinary consortium proposals.
• Design and deliver teaching activities at BSc and MSc level, including course development, practical sessions, mentoring and assessment.
• Supervise BSc, MSc and PhD students in their research projects.
• Engage in departmental and institutional service and outreach activities.

Research Focus

• Biochemical cycles in agricultural landscapes.
• Large-scale biodiversity change using spatial analyses or remote sensing.
• Small-scale biodiversity change through soil metagenomics or related approaches.

Teaching Responsibilities

• Lead interdisciplinary courses in sustainable transitions and environmental biology.
• Mentor students in research projects and examinations.

Qualifications

• PhD in ecology, environmental science or related field.
• Published research record in soil ecology, biogeochemistry, landscape/agroecology.
• Experience supervising PhD and MSc students.
• Strong communication skills in English; proficiency in Dutch (or willingness to learn) is desirable.
• Teaching qualification (UTQ or BKO) or willingness to obtain within two years.

Benefits

• Initial one‑year contract with option to extend to permanent employment.
• Monthly gross salary ranging from € 4 728 to € 6 433 (based on pay scale 11).
• Comprehensive benefits: holiday allowance, end‑of‑year bonus, pension scheme, hybrid working options and home‑working allowance.
• Flexible vacation policy: 232 vacation hours per year (≈ 30.5 days) with flexible scheduling.

Diversity and Inclusion

Leiden University is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, including women and researchers from underrepresented groups.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is July 10, 2026. Interviews will be conducted in the weeks following the deadline.

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