PhD in Portable Mass Spectrometry for Food Toxin Detection (2 Positions)

About the Role

Wageningen University and Research is offering two fully funded four-year PhD positions in Food Chemistry focused on developing portable mass spectrometry tools for on-site food toxin detection. Position 1 focuses on advanced sample preparation and material design (cellulose modification, solid-phase extraction, 3D-printed sampling devices). Position 2 focuses on gas-phase chemistry and molecular identification (non-conventional adducts, ion mobility, fragmentation selectivity).

The starting monthly salary is EUR 3,059, rising to EUR 3,881 in year four. Additional benefits include an 8.3% year-end bonus, a strong pension scheme, flexible working hours, on-campus sports facilities, and partially paid parental leave. The deadline for this call was 1 May 2026; check the vacancy page for updated openings.

Responsibilities

Position 1: Chemically modify cellulose materials for selective extraction, develop solid-phase extraction devices, integrate 3D printing for sampling tools, and couple probes with portable mass spectrometry systems.

Position 2: Study formation of non-conventional adducts in mass spectrometry, enhance fragmentation selectivity, analyse ion mobility behaviour, and achieve identification accuracy comparable to conventional LC-MS/MS.

Both positions: Publish results in peer-reviewed journals, present at international food safety and analytical chemistry conferences, and contribute to cross-project collaborations.

Requirements

• MSc degree in analytical chemistry, food chemistry, food safety, or a closely related field
• Demonstrated interest in mass spectrometry or instrumental analysis
• Minimum C1 English language proficiency
• Problem-solving mindset and collaborative attitude
• Experience working in international, interdisciplinary teams

Nice to Have

• Knowledge of toxin analysis (mycotoxins, pesticide residues, or contaminants)
• Prior experience with mass spectrometry instrumentation
• Familiarity with 3D printing for laboratory devices
• Programming skills for data processing and automation

How to Apply

Apply through the Wageningen University vacancy portal at wur.nl/en/vacancy/phd-positions-portable-mass-spectrometry-food-toxin-detection. Submit a combined CV and motivation letter not exceeding three pages. Specify which position (1 or 2) you are applying for in your cover letter.