The University of Basel is inviting applications for a PhD position within the research group Plant Microbe Interactions at the Department of Environmental Sciences. This position is part of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) project, ‘Decoding plant growth in response to complex soil microbiomes,’ which aims to uncover the mechanistic basis of how specific plant genotypes thrive on certain soil microbiomes.
Designation
PhD Student (100%)
Position Details
| Institution | University of Basel |
| Department | Environmental Sciences |
| Project | Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) |
| Duration | 4 Years |
| Location | Basel, Switzerland |
| Start Date | Upon agreement |
Research Area
The research focuses on Plant Microbiome Biology, specifically investigating how plants perceive complex soil microbiomes and integrate these inputs into growth and defense mechanisms. The project involves exploring candidate loci, investigating non-canonical immune receptors, and utilizing state-of-the-art methods such as microbiome feedback assays, transcriptome profiling, and microbiota profiling.
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A strong academic background in plant-microbe interactions, genetics, and molecular biology.
- A Master’s degree in a relevant field (Biology, Plant Science, etc.).
- High level of self-motivation, a proactive mindset, and a “getting-things-done” attitude.
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to work in an interdisciplinary, international environment.
- Fluency in spoken and written English is a prerequisite.
Scholarship/Position Description
The successful candidate will be enrolled in the doctoral program of the Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center. The University of Basel offers:
- A dynamic research environment with state-of-the-art facilities.
- Collaboration with an international team of enthusiastic scientists.
- A competitive salary according to University of Basel standards.
- A fixed-term contract for 4 years.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the University of Basel recruiting portal. The application should ideally be submitted as a single PDF file including:
- A motivation letter.
- A complete Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- University transcripts/marks.
- A list of publications (if applicable).
- Contact details for two academic references.
For further information, candidates may contact Prof. Dr. Klaus Schlaeppi at klaus.schlaeppi@unibas.ch.
Last Date for Apply
Review of applications will begin in December and will continue until the position is filled.
