Position: Doctoral Researcher – Agricultural & Environmental Economics
Institution: KU Leuven, Division of Bio-economics, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences
Project: VSS4Food&Fiber (Voluntary Sustainability Standards impact on agrifood & fiber systems)
About the Project:
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An interdisciplinary initiative exploring the socio-economic and environmental impacts of voluntary sustainability standards (e.g., Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, RSPO) across eight key commodities: coffee, cocoa, tea, palm oil, soybean, banana, sugarcane, and cotton.
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Focus areas include deforestation, biodiversity loss, poverty, and child labor.
What You’ll Do:
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Build and analyze regional and country-level datasets.
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Conduct macro- and regional-level econometric impact studies.
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Collaborate across disciplines, present findings globally, and engage with stakeholders through policy dialogues and dissemination efforts.
Who We’re Looking For:
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Master’s degree (EU-level or equivalent) in Bioscience Engineering (Econ/Ecology), Agricultural Economics, Environmental Economics, Ecological Economics, or related fields, with excellent academic results (distinction or cum laude).
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Skills or eagerness in: database management, quantitative analysis, GIS, scientific writing, and teamwork. Field research experience is a plus.
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Proficient in English (Dutch is a plus), adaptable, independent, and cross-culturally collaborative.
Offer Details:
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Full-time PhD scholarship, renewable annually for up to 4 years, following KU Leuven’s doctoral salary scale.
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Includes health coverage, reduced public transit, free bike use, childcare options, access to sports facilities, and research training.
Deadline & Application Process:
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Apply by: 10 September 2025, 23:59 CET via online portal.
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You will be notified before: 1 October 2025. Starting date: between October and December 2025.
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Required documents: CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, and at least one recommendation letter.
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Supervisor: Prof. dr. ir. Miet Maertens (co-supervised by Dr. Axel Marx).
Additional Information:
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KU Leuven is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion across all identities and backgrounds.
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For support or accessibility inquiries, reach out via the job posting.
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To apply for this job please visit www.kuleuven.be.