PhD Position in Soil Biogeochemistry: The University of Tuebingen, in collaboration with the Technical University of Munich, is offering a 4-year PhD position focusing on the impact of concurrent abiotic and biotic stress on below-ground processes at the root-soil interface. This position is part of the DFG Research Unit “MultiStress” and offers an exciting opportunity to work on a project that assesses the effects of multiple stresses on maize roots and root-soil interactions.
PhD Position in Soil Biogeochemistry and Plant-Soil Interactions
Designation
PhD Position in Soil Biogeochemistry and Plant-Soil Interactions
Research Area
Soil Biogeochemistry, Plant-Soil Interactions, Root-Soil Interface, Stress Responses in Plants
Location
University of Tuebingen, Germany, and field sites in Gottingen, Germany, and Siaya, Kenya.
Eligibility/Qualification
- Master’s degree in soil science, agriculture, biogeochemistry, geoecology, molecular biology, microbiology, biology, geoscience, or a similar field.
- Good scientific writing skills in English.
- Basic understanding of soil processes, particularly the role of roots in accessing soil resources and their implications on soil processes.
- Experience with molecular or biogeochemical laboratory techniques.
- Ability to work as part of a team in both laboratory and field environments.
Job Description
The successful candidate will:
- Contribute to the DFG Research Unit “MultiStress”.
- Experimentally assess the combined effects of drought, nitrogen deficiency, foliar disease (Setosphaeria turcica leaf blight), and insect pest stemborer on maize roots and root-soil interactions.
- Assess the impacts of multiple stresses on different maize genotypes under tropical and temperate conditions.
- Conduct root and soil sampling at field experiments in Germany (Gottingen) and Kenya (Siaya).
- Evaluate key root and rhizosphere traits, including morphology, anatomy, osmolytes, enzyme activities, and mycorrhizal fungi colonization.
- Apply stable isotopes in field studies for plant and soil labeling.
- Link below-ground phenotypic data with transcript profiles to connect plant responses to multiple stresses with root zone processes.
- Collaborate closely with another PhD student focusing on above-ground phenotyping.
- Process data, evaluate results, and contribute to scientific publications.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send their application as a single PDF file, including a motivation letter, CV, and certificates, to michaela.dippold@uni-tuebingen.de. For any questions regarding the position, applicants can contact M. Dippold or M. Ahmed (mutez.ahmed@tum.de).
Last Date to Apply
Applications must be submitted by 26th July 2024.
