Wachelder graduated in theoretical physics. Then he turned to the history of science and education.

FASoS/UM positions (selection)

• Chair FASoS Board of Examiners (Sep 2018 onwards)
• Associate Dean of Education/ Member Faculty Board (Jan 2012 – Dec 2015).
• Chair Department of History (Sep 2009 – Sep 2011)
• Member Board of Appeals (Oct 2002 – Sep 2008)
• Programme Director BA Arts & Culture (Sep 2000 – Sep 2002)

External Advice/Policy/Boards (selection)

• Chair Board Museum Land van Valkenburg (Jan 2016 onwards)
• Member of the Board of Advice of the Academy of Regional Gastronomy (Mar 2009 onwards)
• Member of the Board of Trustees Limburgs Museum Venlo (Sep 2006 – Sep 2014)
• Chair of the Scientific Advisory Council Limburgs Museum Venlo (Aug 2006 –Sep 2014)
• Member of the Scientific Board of the European Society for the History of Science (Oct 2003 – Sep 2008)
• Member of the Editorial Board De Maasgouw (Jan 2000 – Dec 2008)
• Member of the Board of Limburgs Film en Video Archief (Jul 1998 – Mar 2007)
• Member of the Scientific Advisory Council Limburgs Museum Venlo, (Jul 2003 – Aug 2006)
• Vice President Gewina (Nov 2003 – May 2006)
• Member of the Board Gewina (May 2000 – Nov 2003)
• Member of Foundation Limburgs Film en Videoarchief (Jan 1993 – Jul 1998)
• Chair of the Advisory Board of the Maastricht Science Shop (Sep 1992 – Dec 1997)
• Member of the Advisory Board of the Maastricht Science Shop (Oct 1988 – Sept 1992)