Overview
Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is a Dutch public research university and applied research institution established in 1876 and recognised as a university in 1918. It is based in Wageningen, Netherlands, and focuses on life sciences, agriculture, environmental science and related disciplines. WUR’s mission is “to explore the potential of nature to improve the quality of life”, integrating scientific inquiry with practical impact globally.
Mission and focus areas
WUR aims to address global challenges in sustainable food systems, climate resilience, biodiversity, water and land use, and health for all life. Its work spans fundamental and applied research, education and collaboration with governments, industry and civil society to inform policy and practice. Research themes include sustainable agriculture, resilient ecosystems, climate-proof futures, biobased and circular societies, and sustainable water management. These efforts contribute to sustainability outcomes relevant to ESG integration, sustainable finance and evidence-based decision-making in both public and private sectors.
Structure and governance
WUR comprises Wageningen University and a network of research institutes under Stichting Wageningen Research. Its governance includes an Executive Board led by a President and Rector Magnificus, and a Supervisory Board appointed by Dutch ministries. The organisation is structured around science groups that align university departments with research institutes, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across natural and social sciences.
Programs and offerings
WUR delivers a range of academic programmes, including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral and professional education. It conducts fundamental and applied research through specialised institutes such as Wageningen Environmental Research and Wageningen Social & Economic Research, generating data, insights and solutions for environmental, economic and food system challenges. The organisation also supports lifelong learning, strategic partnerships, research facilities and tools that inform sustainability practice and policy. Its outputs—academic publications, datasets and applied solutions—are used by practitioners, policymakers and industry worldwide.
