PhD position in Plant Microbiology: The available PhD position focuses on exploring the intricate ecological interactions between forest microbial communities and oak adaptation to climate change, particularly emphasizing the impact of drought events. The project aims to unravel how forest microbiomes contribute to the adaptive evolution of oak populations, addressing a significant knowledge gap in this field. The research will be conducted in the oak-rich regions of Hauts-de-France in Northern France, considering both native and introduced oak species. The oak holobiont, comprising the tree and its associated microbial communities, will be regarded as the central unit of adaptive evolution.
Open PhD Position – Microbiome Influence on Oak Adaptation to Climate Change
Summary Table:
| Study Area | Scholarship Description |
|---|---|
| Microbial Ecology, Climate Change Adaptation, Oak Holobiont | Investigate the influence of forest microbiomes on oak adaptation to climate change, focusing on drought events. Study native and introduced oak species in Hauts-de-France, Northern France. Employ a multidisciplinary approach, including spatial modeling, field sampling, lab experiments, metabarcoding sequencing, and bioinformatics. |
Eligibility: Prospective candidates must hold a Master’s degree or demonstrate equivalent competence in Biology, Ecology, Evolution, Forestry, Agricultural Sciences, or related disciplines. Proficiency in both spoken and written English is advantageous. Additional skills and interests, such as formulating research questions, outdoor fieldwork enthusiasm, molecular biology knowledge, and programming skills (R/Python), are beneficial but not mandatory.
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Recommendation letter
- Summary of relevant grades
How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit their documents to Prof. Marco Cosme at marco.cosme@u-picardie.fr before March 15, 2024. Only selected candidates for interviews will be contacted. The position is expected to commence in September 2024, lasting for three years. However, the application process will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.
Last Date for Application: March 15, 2024
