Researcher Microbial Water Quality & Health (32-40 hours)

Clean and safe water is a great asset. KWR is an internationally renowned research institute, and we contribute to applied scientific research throughout the entire water cycle. Our mission is ‘Bridging science and Practice. Our 200+ employees work on innovative projects in the Netherlands and, increasingly, in the rest of Europe. The ten Dutch drinking water companies and the Belgian De Watergroep are our shareholders.

Our researchers work at the intersection of science, practical implementation, business, and society. Their strength lies in translating scientific knowledge into applicable practical solutions. To support this research, KWR has specialized laboratories, a test hall, and a test pond at its disposal, and pilot plants are built in-house that are frequently deployed for (on-site) field research at our clients.

We are looking for a microbiological researcher who works on a project basis with and for clients to broaden and deepen our knowledge of water microbiology in the water cycle, thereby contributing to or improving microbiological, chemical, and ecological water quality. You will do this through applied scientific research, often on a multidisciplinary basis with other researchers within and outside KWR, to develop knowledge, methods, and practical tools. You contribute from your own expertise, identify opportunities in the market, actively engage your national and international network, and find a challenge in bringing your research to the attention of the public.

We are specifically seeking a researcher with experience or affinity for the microbiological safety of water. This encompasses research into pathogenic bacteria (including antibiotic resistance), viruses, and parasites in water, the development of measurement methods, and the characterization of sources of contamination. It also involves research into the transport and behavior of pathogens in water systems, natural and engineered water purification processes in a changing climate, and the analysis of health risks. As we are increasingly conducting research into molecular detection and sequencing methods, knowledge of bioinformatics is a plus.

• A completed academic education in a relevant discipline such as microbiology, aquatic ecology, environmental (or civil) engineering;
• The ability to conduct research from an integrated and client-oriented perspective;
• The ability to manage multiple research projects in parallel to produce usable results;
• Excellent Dutch and academic writing skills;
• At least 4 years of work experience in the required field of biological safety, in a national or international research environment or a comparable setting;
• Experience within the Dutch watersector or comparable international experience is preferred.

If you do not meet the full profile but are enthusiastic about this position, we would still like to receive your motivation and CV.

We attach great importance to personal growth and career development and offer various opportunities for this, such as a good onboarding process and various courses and skills training. A good work-life balance is our top priority. KWR offers excellent primary and secondary employment conditions and is affiliated with the Water Companies Collective Labour Agreement (CAO), including a Flexible Employment Conditions Budget of 15.49%. In addition, working from home part-time is an option.

The Microbiological Water Quality and Health team works in a dynamic environment at the intersection of research and practice, investigating microbial water quality and its potential impact on the environment in various water systems. We study pathogenic, disruptive, and beneficial microorganisms in the water cycle, the influence of the environment on their behavior, and how we can manage these organisms. We develop new molecular microbiological methods and deploy them in conjunction with culture methods to detect (micro)organisms, identify sources of microbial pollution, and understand microbial processes in the water cycle. In a multidisciplinary team of experts, you will work on the development and application of innovations in the field of microbial knowledge, methods, and water quality assessment. Bioinformatics plays an increasingly important role within this field. Together with our clients, we put our knowledge of the water cycle into practice. Based on the insights developed through this research, we assess, for example, the effectiveness of technical or other interventions in the water cycle to improve water quality.

Our team consists of twelve researchers with diverse backgrounds and experience. We work together towards our goals in an open, collegial and constructive atmosphere.

For more detailed information about the position, please contact Leonie Borstlap (Team Leader Microbiological Water Quality and Health) at 030-606 9596 or leonie.borstlap@kwrwater.nl.

For more detailed information about the position, please contact Leonie Borstlap (Team Leader Microbiological Water Quality and Health) at 030-606 9596 or leonie.borstlap@kwrwater.nl.

Recruitment agencies contacting us regarding this vacancy are not appreciated.