(Junior/Medior) Groundwater Quality Researcher (32–40 hours)

KWR Water Research Institute

KWR is an internationally renowned research institute specializing in water quality, the water cycle, and sustainable development. “Bridging science and practice” is our mission. From our nearly entirely sustainable building, equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, our approximately 200 employees from various disciplines work on innovative projects in the Netherlands and internationally. The ten Dutch drinking water companies and the Belgian “De Watergroep” are our shareholders.

At KWR, we worked tirelessly in 2025 to tackle the societal challenges ahead of us decisively and effectively. Responding to a widely felt need for greater direction in our research, we devoted all our resources to developing our 2035 Master Plan: “Bringing the Values of Water to Life.” The top priority within our strategy is ensuring an adequate supply of high-quality, healthy, and safe water in Europe. In doing so, we focus not only on drinking water but also on other types of water and other elements of the water supply, such as surface water and wastewater, drought, and water buffers—all of which are of great importance to our shareholders and clients. Our researchers work at the intersection of science, business, and society. Their strength lies in translating scientific knowledge into practical solutions for end users in the Dutch and international water sectors. To support this research, KWR has specialized laboratories and a test hall, and we build our own pilot plants. In addition, we develop company-specific software for use in our projects.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for a researcher who will work to broaden and deepen our understanding of groundwater quality and the processes occurring in the subsurface, and to translate this knowledge into recommendations for clients—including water utilities, water boards, government agencies, and industry—in the Netherlands, across Europe, and internationally. In this way, you will actively contribute to the development of a robust knowledge infrastructure for the water sector. You will contribute based on your own knowledge and experience, collaborate with colleagues on innovative projects, and find fulfillment in bringing your research to the forefront

Your Profile

You are a versatile Groundwater Quality Researcher. A professional who wants to work at the dynamic intersection of research and practice on a wide range of research projects in the field of groundwater quality and the behavior and transport of contaminants in the subsurface. Are you naturally curious, intrinsically driven to contribute to a sustainable society, do you see opportunities rather than obstacles, and are you committed to continuous professional development? If so, we’d love to meet you!
Additionally:
  • Do you have a completed academic degree or a recently completed Ph.D. in a relevant earth science field (e.g., Earth or Environmental Sciences, (Geo)hydrology, Soil Science, (Geo)chemistry);
  • Are you interested in conducting research and consulting projects focused on groundwater quality and the transport of contaminants in the subsurface;
  • Are you able to combine fieldwork with experimental work, data analysis, and water quality modeling;
  • Can you work both independently and as part of a team;
  • Do you possess strong analytical skills and well-developed, application-oriented thinking abilities?
  • Are you skilled at planning and organizing your work, creative, innovative, and able to translate complex issues into compelling and feasible research projects?
  • Do you have an excellent command of both spoken and written Dutch and English?

Our Knowledge Domain

Within KWR, the Geo- and Ecohydrology knowledge domain brings together expertise on water flows, the subsurface, and ecosystems. The knowledge domain investigates how groundwater, surface water, soil, and nature influence one another. In doing so, it provides the knowledge needed for sustainable water management and for addressing changes in climate, land use, water availability, and ecological quality. Within our knowledge domain, we are working to advance the fields of geohydrology and ecohydrology.

The Geohydrology research area focuses on the presence and movement of water in the subsurface. Research within this field includes studies on groundwater flow, groundwater recharge, (hydro)geochemical processes, the properties of aquifers, and the interaction between groundwater and surface water. This knowledge is essential for the protection and sustainable use of groundwater resources, both now and in the future.

The field of ecohydrology studies the interaction between water and ecosystems. It examines the impact of water levels, flow, and water availability on nature and biodiversity, as well as the ways in which ecosystems themselves influence the water system. This knowledge helps to better align water management and nature conservation.

Our team consists of 26 researchers with extensive knowledge of groundwater, water quality, nature, and water systems. We work together toward our goals in an open, collegial, and constructive atmosphere.

Our offer

We are strongly committed to personal growth and career development and offer various opportunities to support these, such as a comprehensive onboarding program and a variety of courses and skills training. A healthy work-life balance is a top priority for us. KWR offers excellent primary and secondary employment benefits and is covered by the Water Companies Collective Bargaining Agreement, which includes a Flexible Employment Conditions Budget of 15.49%. Depending on your knowledge and experience, the gross monthly salary will range from 4,289 euros to 6,715 euros based on a full-time 40-hour workweek (scale J or K) under the Water Companies Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Are you the passionate Groundwater Quality Researcher who wants to work with us toward a sustainable society? If so, please email your cover letter and resume to vacancy@kwrwater.nl as soon as possible, but no later than November 20, 2026, and be sure to include job posting number 260010. The first rounds of interviews will be held on November 25, November 30, or December 2. Please keep this in mind when planning your schedule.

More information

For more information about the position, please contact Gerard van den Berg (Head of the Geo-Eco-Hydrology Division) by phone at 030 – 60 69 549 or by email at gerard.van.den.berg@kwrwater.nl.

For more information about the application process, please contact Manouk Odijk, HR Specialist, by phone at 030 – 60 69 559 or by email at manouk.odijk@kwrwater.nl.

You can find more information about KWR and the Geo- and Ecohydrology knowledge domain on our website (www.kwrwater.nl).

Recruitment efforts in response to this advertisement are not appreciated.

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