Summary
The Agroecology & Plant Microbiome Interactions Group at the University of Zurich (UZH) and Agroscope is recruiting a PhD candidate for a 4-year research project focused on sustainable agricultural production. Building upon recent findings showing that arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can increase Swiss crop yields by up to 40%, this research will evaluate various plant growth and soil health-promoting microorganisms to assess their potential to enhance yields while reducing pesticide and fertilizer reliance in real-world agricultural settings.
Designation
PhD Candidate / PhD Researcher (80% workload)
Overview Table
| Parameter | Details |
| Position | PhD Position: Sustainable Food Production with Biologicals |
| Workload | 80% |
| Host Institution | University of Zurich (UZH) & Agroscope |
| Department | Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies |
| Research Group | Agroecology & Plant Microbiome Interactions Group |
| Duration | 4 Years (Temporary) |
| Start Date | October 1, 2026 (or by agreement) |
| Location | Zurich, Switzerland |
Research Area
- Agroecology & Plant Microbiome Interactions
- Soil Biodiversity & Ecological Engineering
- Microbial Ecology (Fungi & Bacteria / AMF)
- Sustainable Farming Systems & Crop Yield Optimization
Location
Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies
University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland (and Agroscope, Zurich location).
Eligibility / Qualification
- Degree: Master’s degree in Microbiology, Agronomy, Microbial Ecology, Microbiome Research, or Botany with excellent academic grades.
- Technical Experience: Expertise in field or greenhouse plant experiments, microbial ecology, microbiology, or molecular techniques.
- Analytical Skills: Strong proficiency in statistical analysis is preferred.
- Personal Qualities: Achievement-oriented, collaborative team player, open-minded, and willing to work in field environments during harvest periods.
- Language: Proficiency in English (working language). Conversational Swiss German is helpful for interacting with local farmers, but not required.
Job Description & Responsibilities
- Field & Greenhouse Experiments: Test conditions and crop species under which inoculation with AMF and other beneficial microbes promotes plant yields.
- Microbial Tracking: Utilize molecular methods (qPCR, metabarcoding) and microscopy to evaluate whether inoculated microorganisms establish in the soil and colonize root systems.
- Data Management: Analyze experimental data, prepare research reports, and publish findings in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
- Collaborative Contribution: Actively participate in a 25-member research group consisting of postdocs, technicians, PhD candidates, and international guests.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit an online application as a single PDF file consisting of:
- Complete Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Summary of past research projects (e.g., Master’s thesis)
- Contact details for 2 academic referees
Contact Person: Prof. Dr. Marcel van der Heijden (+41 58 468 72 78)
Applications can be submitted directly via the University of Zurich Job Vacancy Page.
Last Date for Apply
- Not Specified / Open Until Filled (Employment commences on October 01, 2026, or by agreement). Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
