Head of Department Emissions & Manure valorisation

Are you, as head of department, eager to innovate in a science-based research institute? Do you have views on mitigating solutions for emissions of greenhouse gases, nitrogen, particulate matter and odour? Do you want to explore manure processing and valorisation options, and their role in future animal farming systems? Are you a strong and team-oriented leader? Do you have an extensive network in the agro food sector? Then we might be looking for you, as the right candidate to lead our Department on Emissions & Manure valorisation and strengthen our management team.

Your job
As head of the department on Emissions & Manure valorisation you:

• are leading the department (30-35 employees), with a team- and people-oriented motivation;
• contribute to the strategic, scientific and market development of Wageningen Livestock Research (WLR), the Animal Sciences Group and Wageningen University & Research;
• show leadership based on trust, stimulating personal responsibility and team development, and pay attention to social safety at work;
• join the WLR management team and with this team, you shape the future development of the institute; and implement strategic and annual plans;
• with your team, develop and communicate a clear and inspiring department vision on emission reduction and manure valorisation within the livestock sector, and convert this vision into strategy and actions;
• develop and maintain strategic partnerships, collaborations within and outside of WUR and relationships with research institutes, academia, the agro food sector, policy makers and other stakeholders;
• manage the financial, human resource and other operations at department level;
• strengthen our scientific and societal impact;
• enhance working in interdisciplinary teams, and stimulate integral sustainable solutions.

The research
Our food system is a complex system with many challenges to make it more sustainable. Our research is related to the impact of our present and future food system. We are facing climate change, environmental impact of animal production and loss of biodiversity. At the same time, urbanisation, an increasing world population and a growing demand for (animal) protein are factors in debates and dialogues about how to feed the world. Wageningen Livestock Research (WLR) explores the role of animals in the food system; and strives to improve the quality of life for humans, animals and nature. We create science-based solutions for an economic, ecological and social sustainable livestock, insect and aquaculture sector. Together with our clients and partners, we integrate scientific knowledge and practical experience to develop animal farming concepts and solutions for future generations. WLR carries out fundamental and applied research in the fields of animal production and food security, systems innovations, economy, circularity, ecosystem services, environment, grass & forage systems, aquaculture, animal nutrition, breeding & genomics and animal health & welfare.

The Department on Emissions & Manure valorisation has a research team with 30-35 highly motivated project leaders, researchers and analysts. We are known for our expertise on emissions of greenhouse gases, nitrogen, particulate matter and odour from animal farming systems. For finding solutions to minimise these emissions. And for our solutions for manure processing and valorisation, and our expertise on animal housing systems and indoor climate. Most of our research challenges require a multidisciplinary approach.