About the opportunity
This 4-year PhD position is part of the ‘Water Footprint in Action’ programme, a multi-partner initiative funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs focused on water-smart agriculture in Egypt’s horticulture sector. You will be embedded in an international consortium based at the Faculty of Engineering Technology at the University of Twente, working closely with partners in the Netherlands and Egypt. Your research will combine quantitative crop modelling, water footprint benchmarking, and the development of science-based methods to support incentive and finance mechanisms for improved water performance. The role involves frequent project visits to case-study sites in Egypt, collaboration with stakeholders, and active participation in knowledge exchange and academic publishing.
Salary and benefits
- Gross monthly salary ranging from €3,204 in the first year to €4,051 in the fourth year, in accordance with the collective labour agreement for Dutch universities (CAO-NU).
- Full-time 4-year PhD position with excellent mentorship and a stimulating research environment.
- Holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and an end-of-year bonus of 8.3%.
- A minimum of 232 leave hours for full-time employment based on a 38-hour workweek, plus an additional 96 leave hours annually for a 40-hour practice workweek.
- Solid pension scheme, healthcare benefits, free access to sports facilities, and paid/unpaid parental leave.
Who can apply?
- Master’s degree in a relevant field such as water management, agricultural systems, or environmental science.
- Strong quantitative profile with experience in data analysis, modelling, programming, or computational research methods.
- Conceptual strength to translate complex sustainability questions into rigorous research designs.
- Willingness to travel and conduct regular project visits in Egypt for research activities, partner collaboration, and case studies.
- Availability to start the position on 1 January 2027.
- Arabic language skills and experience in the Egyptian context are considered a strong asset.
Required documents
- Motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
- CV (maximum 3 pages)
- Writing sample (maximum 1 page, such as a publication abstract or master's thesis summary)
- Relevant certificates
When to apply
- Application deadline: 1 November 2026
- First online job interviews take place between 9-13 November 2026
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents, ensuring they do not exceed 5 pages in total (excluding certificates).
- Submit your application online through the official vacancy portal using the 'Apply now' link before the deadline.
- Wait for application review and shortlisting results.
- Participate in the first online interview if selected.
- Attend the second interview to discuss job content and your skills, followed by employment offer and screening procedures if successful.
Additional information
- Screening is part of the formal hiring procedure.
- The position is hosted within the Faculty of Engineering Technology (ET) at the University of Twente in Enschede, Netherlands.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for researchers with a strong quantitative background in water management, environmental science, or agricultural systems looking to transition into applied international development.
- Well-suited for candidates eager to engage directly with international stakeholders through fieldwork and case studies in Egypt.
- Provides a comprehensive funding package with European academic standards, mentorship, and structured publication opportunities.
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires frequent international travel and regular project visits to Egypt for fieldwork and partner collaboration.
- Fixed 4-year contract duration requiring commitment to a specific preliminary research scope and consortium deliverables.
- Competitive recruitment process with a strict application page limit of 5 pages.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers a robust stepping stone for early-career researchers aiming to build an academic or applied career at the intersection of environmental sustainability, policy design, and international water governance. It provides valuable multi-stakeholder consortium experience and doctoral training.
Our take
Applicants with a master's degree in water or environmental sciences who possess strong quantitative skills and an interest in Middle Eastern agricultural contexts should seriously consider applying. Those unable to travel to Egypt or lacking quantitative modelling experience will find the role less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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