Are you excited to work at the frontiers of synthetic organic chemistry, catalysis, and medicinal chemistry? We, Wageningen University and Research, have a vacancy for a PhD in New Synthetic Methods for Prodrug Activation.

Your job

Are you excited to work at the frontiers of synthetic organic chemistry, catalysis, and medicinal chemistry? We, Wageningen University and Research, have a vacancy for a PhD in New Synthetic Methods for Prodrug Activation.

We are offering a 4-year PhD position in the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry at Wageningen University and Research, focusing on the development of new (photo)catalytic reactions and synthetic methods to activate prodrugs.

About the project: 
Prodrugs are molecules with little to no biological activity that can harmlessly circulate through the body until they reach their target and are converted into active drugs. The use of prodrugs offers the potential for safer and more effective therapies. However, their successful application requires chemical reactions that convert prodrugs into their active forms in a controlled manner. The aim of this project is therefore to develop new synthetic methods to make precise modifications to a drug’s skeleton with catalytic control, enabling it to bind its target and thus become an active drug. By innovating prodrug activation strategies, we aim to contribute to the development of next-generation prodrugs while expanding the synthetic toolbox. As such, this PhD project combines method development with catalysis and organic synthesis.

Your duties and responsibilities include: 

• you will contribute to the development of new synthetic methods and catalytic tools that enable the controlled activation of prodrugs under physiological conditions. A key aspect of this role is staying informed of the latest developments in the fields of synthetic organic chemistry and catalysis and integrating relevant advances into ongoing research;
• you are expected to develop research questions, design experimental approaches, and execute synthesis and characterization of organic and inorganic compounds within the context of the project. You will report on your findings to the scientific community via peer-reviewed publication, and conference contributions;
• you will take part in the education of students through supervision of BSc and MSc students in laboratory courses and thesis projects;
• you will be registered with the graduate school and receive training in both field-specific, general scientific and soft skills to facilitate your professionalization and development as independent scientist.

You will work here

The project will be executed in the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry (Organic Chemistry - WUR), which is headed by Prof. Han Zuilhof. You will be supervised by Dr. Eva J. Meeus with support from Prof. Han Zuilhof.

Your qualities

• you have a Master’s degree or equivalent in (synthetic) chemistry and can demonstrate expertise in synthetic organic chemistry and/or catalysis. Experience with photochemical techniques is desirable;
• you are capable of working independently as well as within a multicultural and multidisciplinary team;
• you can adhere to high safety standards;
• you have strong oral and written communication skills in English.

For this position your command of the English language is expected to be at C1 level. Sometimes it is necessary to submit an internationally recognized Certificate of Proficiency in the English Language. More information can be found here.

We offer

Wageningen University & Research offers excellent terms of employment. A few highlights from our Collective Labour Agreement include:

• partially paid parental leave;
• working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance;
• there is a strong focus on vitality and you can make use of the sports facilities available on campus for a small fee;
• a fixed year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• excellent pension scheme.

In addition to these first-rate employee benefits, you will receive a fully funded PhD position and you will be offered a course program tailored to your needs and the research team.
The gross salary for the first year is € 3.204,- per month rising to € 4.051,-  in the fourth year in according to the Collective Labour Agreements for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU) (scale P). This is based on a full-time working week of 38 hours. We offer a temporary contract for 18 months which will be extended for the duration of the project if you perform well. 

We encourage development and internal mobility within our organization. Our recruitment and selection policy sets out the conditions that apply specifically to you as a (former) employee. If you have any questions, we are happy to help.

You will work on the greenest and most innovative campus in the Netherlands, in an international and open working environment. 

Coming from abroad

Wageningen University & Research is the university and research centre for life sciences. The themes we deal with are relevant to everyone around the world and Wageningen, therefore, has a large international community and a lot to offer to international employees. 

Because we expect you to work and live in the Netherlands our team of advisors on Dutch immigration procedures will help you with the visa application procedures for yourself and, if applicable, for your family. 

Feeling welcome also has everything to do with being well informed. Wageningen University & Research's International Community page contains practical information about what we can do to support international employees coming to Wageningen. Furthermore, our Welcome Center can assist you with any additional advice and information about for example housing, opening a bank account, dual career programs or schooling. Finally, certain categories of international staff may be eligible for a tax exemption on a part of their salary during the first five years in the Netherlands.

Important information

For more information about the position, please contact Dr. Eva J. Meeus, assistant professor, via email: [email protected]. 
Questions about the procedure? Get in touch with Rutger Voorrips, Corporate Recruiter, via email: [email protected].

Ready to apply?
You can apply directly using the apply button on the vacancy page on our website which will allow us to process your personal information with your approval. Only applications submitted through our website will be considered.

To apply, please send the following documents:

• complete and up-to-date curriculum vitae including at least two references;
• motivation letter;
• list of grades.

You can apply up to and including October 12th, 2026. The first interviews are scheduled shortly after the closing date.

Welcome, safe, and valued
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) highly values diversity and inclusion because we believe that different insights lead to innovative solutions. We create a work environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and appreciated, regardless of background, identity, or experience. Together, we are building a culture where everyone's unique contribution adds to the success of our organization.

We are

​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.

​