PhD Position: Sustainable Food Production with Biologicals 80 %

Key details

• Host institution: University of Zurich
• Location: University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland, Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies
• Supervisor / contact: Prof. Dr. Marcel van der Heijden

How to apply

• Application portal / instructions: Official application link.
• Context on Euraxess: Original listing.

About the position

The Department of Plant and Microbial Biology at the University of Zurich invites applications for a PhD position in Sustainable Food Production with Biologicals (80% employment). This research project investigates the role of beneficial microorganisms in enhancing crop yield and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The successful candidate will explore how microbial communities interact with plants to improve nutrient uptake, stress tolerance, and overall productivity, contributing to the development of eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.

Research Context

The project focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which specific microbial strains influence plant growth and health under field and controlled conditions. This includes examining microbial colonization patterns, plant-microbe signaling pathways, and the impact of microbial inoculants on soil health and crop performance. The research aims to identify key microbial traits that can be harnessed to reduce agricultural inputs while maintaining or increasing yields, aligning with global goals for sustainable food production.

Candidate Profile

• Master’s degree in agriculture, plant biology, microbiology, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on experience with experimental design and execution in plant or microbial research.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, sequencing library preparation).
• Strong analytical skills and familiarity with statistical software for data analysis.
• Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken); knowledge of German is an advantage but not required.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research team.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Design and conduct greenhouse and field experiments to evaluate microbial effects on crop plants.
• Perform molecular analyses to characterize microbial communities and plant responses.
• Analyze experimental data using appropriate statistical and bioinformatics tools.
• Prepare research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at conferences.
• Contribute to teaching and supervision of undergraduate students as part of the position’s academic duties.
• Actively participate in group meetings, seminars, and collaborative projects within the department.

Eligibility and Practical Next Steps

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree completed before the start date. The position is funded for three years with a possible extension, and the starting date is flexible but preferably in early 2025. Applications should include a cover letter detailing research experience and motivation, a curriculum vitae, copies of academic transcripts, and contact information for two academic references. Submit all materials as a single PDF via the online application portal linked on the University of Zurich job portal. Review of applications will begin on 1 March 2025 and continue until the position is filled. For informal inquiries, contact the principal investigator at the email address provided in the full job advertisement. The University of Zurich values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified individuals regardless of background.