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PhD Opportunity at Wageningen University

PhD Opportunity at Wageningen University: Strengthening Farmers’ Bargaining Power in the Food Value Chain

If you are passionate about agricultural economics, rural development, food systems, and EU policy, an exciting new PhD opportunity is now open at one of the world’s leading agricultural universities.

The Agricultural Economics and Rural Policy Group at Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is currently recruiting a PhD candidate to join a major 4-year EU Horizon project focused on strengthening the bargaining position of farmers within the food value chain.


This position offers a unique chance to contribute to impactful research at the intersection of economics, policy, sustainability, and food systems transformation.


About the Opportunity

Farmers across Europe continue to face significant challenges in negotiating fair prices and maintaining equitable relationships within increasingly complex food supply chains. Issues such as market concentration, price volatility, unequal negotiating power, and sustainability pressures have intensified the need for evidence-based policy solutions.


To address these challenges, Wageningen University is participating in a European Union Horizon-funded research project designed to explore innovative approaches for improving the bargaining power of farmers and creating more balanced food value chains.


The selected PhD candidate will work closely with an interdisciplinary and international research team, contributing to cutting-edge research that has direct relevance for policymakers, agricultural organizations, cooperatives, and the broader food sector.


Why Wageningen University?

Wageningen University & Research is globally recognized for excellence in agricultural sciences, environmental research, and food systems innovation. Frequently ranked among the top universities worldwide in agriculture and life sciences, WUR provides an intellectually stimulating and collaborative environment for researchers.


As a PhD candidate, you will benefit from:

• Access to internationally renowned experts in agricultural economics and rural policy

• Participation in a large-scale European research network

• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration

• Exposure to EU policy discussions and stakeholder engagement

• A vibrant international academic community


Research Focus Areas

While the specific responsibilities and methodologies may vary, the PhD project is expected to address themes such as:

• Farmers’ market power and bargaining position

• Governance of food value chains

• Agricultural cooperatives and producer organizations

• Fairness and transparency in agri-food markets

• EU agricultural and competition policy

• Sustainable and resilient food systems

• Rural development and economic inclusion


The research may involve a combination of quantitative analysis, policy evaluation, stakeholder interviews, and case study research.


Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a strong academic background and a keen interest in agricultural and rural policy issues.


Potential applicants may come from disciplines such as:

• Agricultural Economics

• Economics

• Rural Development

• Public Policy

• Food Systems Studies

• Development Studies

• Related social science fields


Candidates with experience in empirical research methods, policy analysis, or food systems research may find this role especially appealing.


Career and Professional Development

A PhD at Wageningen University offers more than academic training. Candidates gain valuable experience in:


• International research collaboration

• Policy-oriented research

• Scientific publishing

• Stakeholder engagement

• Conference participation

• Teaching and mentoring opportunities


The experience can open pathways to careers in academia, international organizations, government institutions, NGOs, consulting, and the agri-food industry.


Application Deadline

📅 Deadline for Applications: June 1, 2026


Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early and review the full vacancy details through the official link below.


🔗 Apply Here


As food systems worldwide face growing economic, environmental, and social pressures, research that supports fairer and more resilient agricultural markets is increasingly important. This PhD position at Wageningen University offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute to real-world solutions while pursuing advanced academic research within a prestigious international setting.


For aspiring researchers interested in shaping the future of agricultural policy and food value chains, this could be the perfect next step.

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