In a dynamic environment at the interface of research and practice, you will work with colleagues to shape method development and research into risk assessment and health impact assessment of (mixtures of) chemical substances. In a multidisciplinary team of experts, you will develop innovations in risk assessment and apply them in combination with existing methods. You will receive a thorough onboarding period to take up a position in our projects. Together, we translate knowledge into the practice of the water chain, using the insights gained, for example, to make statements regarding the urgency and effectiveness of (technological) interventions in the water cycle to mitigate health risks.
You possess a completed academic foundation in a natural science discipline, such as biology, chemistry, or environmental science. Preferably, you have a specialization, such as a PhD, in the field of toxicology/risk assessment. You are creative, innovative, and capable of translating complex issues into engaging and actionable research results.
Furthermore:
- Do you possess specific knowledge in the field of substance risk assessment, biological effect measurements of chemical substances, microplastics, and/or nanomaterials;
- Do you preferably already have some knowledge of the water sector in the Netherlands or comparable international experience;
- Do you preferably have the demonstrable ability to work on a project basis and/or experience with project management;
- Are you enterprising as well as an enthusiastic and results-driven colleague;
- Do you make an active contribution to acquiring research funding and maintaining relationships, both within public organizations and industry;
- Do you have the ambition to build a reputation in your field of research;
- Do you enjoy presenting and publishing research results (inter-)nationally, including via social media;
- Do you know how to plan and organize your work well;
- Do you enjoy working together in a project team;
- Do you have a good command of both spoken and written Dutch and English.
Safe and clean drinking water is a great asset. KWR is an internationally renowned research institute in the fields of water quality, the water cycle, and sustainable development. ‘Bridging science and practice’ is our mission. From our fully sustainable building with state-of-the-art laboratories, our approximately 200 employees work on innovative projects in the Netherlands and Europe. The ten Dutch drinking water companies and the Belgian ‘De Watergroep’ are our shareholders.
Our researchers work at the intersection of science, business, and society. Their strength lies in translating scientific knowledge into applicable practical solutions for end-users in the Dutch and international water sector. To support this research, KWR has specialized laboratories and a test hall at its disposal, and pilot plants are built in-house. Additionally, company-specific software is developed for use within projects.
The Chemical Water Quality and Health team investigates chemical water quality and its potential health effects in various water systems. We examine a wide range of substances in the water cycle. Questions we aim to answer include the influence of environmental conditions on substance behavior and how to identify the presence of these substances by conducting risk assessments. In collaboration with the laboratory and (inter)national partners, we are developing chemical analytical measurement methods that can be used to screen and detect low concentrations. We pay special attention to emerging substances that are (currently) difficult to measure and are developing biological effect measurements.
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.
Are you the experienced toxicology and risk assessment researcher with an interest in the water cycle, that we are looking for? Please send your cover letter and CV by email to
[email protected] as soon as possible, but no later than July 12, 2026, quoting vacancy number 260999.
For substantive information about the position, please contact Stefan Kools (Team Leader Chemical Water Quality and Health) by telephone at 030-606 9539 or by email at [email protected].
For information about the application procedure, please contact José van Lieshout via [email protected] or telephone at 030 – 606 9536.
Recruitment agencies contacting us regarding this vacancy are not appreciated.
