Wageningen University & Research
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is a Dutch knowledge institution focused on food, nature, and people. It combines Wageningen University with eight research institutes of Stichting Wageningen Research, and its mission is to explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life. WUR serves students, professionals, policymakers, public institutions, and industry partners. Across education, research, and applied collaboration, it addresses interconnected challenges such as healthy food, sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, climate resilience, and the transition to more sustainable food systems. Core Values Sustainability : WUR consistently frames its work around creating a future that is sustainable, healthy, fair, biodiverse, circular, and climate-resilient. Systems thinking : The institution emphasizes integrated, cross-disciplinary solutions that take the links between food, nature, climate, economy, and society into account. Impact through collaboration : WUR highlights cooperation with governments, businesses, citizens, and scientific partners as essential to solving complex societal challenges. Scientific excellence : Its education and research are positioned as grounded in strong scientific expertise and aimed at practical, real-world impact. Unique Aspects Integrated university and research institute structure : WUR combines Wageningen University with eight research institutes, giving it a broad platform for education, research, and applied innovation. Strong global and regional partnership network : The institution collaborates with international and Dutch partners such as FAO, CGIAR-related networks, 4TU Federation, Foodvalley, Delta Climate Center, OnePlanet Research Center, and others. Entrepreneurship and startup support : WUR supports early-stage ventures through Wageningen Impact Catalyst, StartHub Wageningen, and StartLife, helping translate research into new businesses. Large-scale research capacity : Known news describes WUR as operating across about 30 locations with thousands of staff and students, underlining its scale and reach in the food and agri domain. Recent venture funding initiative : In 2026, WUR and Graduate Ventures launched a pre-seed fund to help promising startups emerging from WUR access capital, networks, and investor expertise.