PhD in Agricultural Sciences at Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra (Slovakia)

Key details

• Host institution: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra
• Location: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Trieda Andreja Hlinku 2, Nitra, Slovakia
• Application deadline: May 31, 2026

Funding

Not funded by a EU programme

Funding level (from listing): partial or not via EU framework — confirm on the official call.

How to apply

• Apply by email to [email protected] (subject line and attachments per the official instructions).
• Full vacancy text and updates: Euraxess listing.

About the position

PhD Position: Genotype-Specific Genome Responses of Flax to In Vitro-Induced Stress in Relation to Lignans Biosynthesis (Internal Form)

Supervisor: prof. Ing. Katarína Ražná, PhD.

Workplace: Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Plant and Environmental Sciences

Language: Slovak/English

Thesis Description

Flaxseed has the highest lignan content, making it a model species for studying lignan biosynthesis. Lignans contribute to plant defence mechanisms thanks to their antioxidant, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Various factors influence the lignan content, including genotype, tissue type, geographical origin, local environmental conditions, nutrition, and plant maturity.

Scientific Goal

The aim is to investigate the genotype-dependent specificity of the genome response to induced abiotic stress in the context of different lignan contents, and to elucidate the mechanisms that regulate this response.

Methodological Objectives

An in vitro experiment involving the subsequent transcriptomic analysis of selected genes, as well as antioxidant and metabolic analyses.

Expected Benefits

This research project will provide a multi-level analysis of the adaptive potential of plants under abiotic stress conditions, depending on their lignan content. The findings will further our understanding of stress-induced metabolic regulation and clarify whether induced lignan biosynthesis affects the adaptive potential of plants. Furthermore, the results could inform potential biotechnological approaches for the controlled production of bioactive lignans.

Requirements for the Applicant

• University education in the field of agricultural or biological sciences.
• Experience in plant biotechnologies.
• Interest in scientific work, professional education, responsible approach to solved tasks.