PhD Position on Plant-Microbiome Signalling: The Department of Biology at Utrecht University is seeking a highly motivated and creative PhD candidate for a position within the NWO funded project ‘Identifying Plant Compounds and Processes that Attract and Accommodate Beneficial Microbes’ (ATTACC). The project aims to uncover plant compounds and processes influencing the root rhizosphere environment, crucial for plant-microbiome interactions in sustainable agriculture.
Designation: PhD Researcher
Research Area: Plant-Microbiome Signalling
Location: Utrecht University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology
Eligibility/Qualification:
- MSc in plant and/or microbe biology, plant biotechnology, or related field
- Experience in plant biotechnology or microbiology techniques, preferably in plant microbiome research
- Excellent command of both written and spoken English
- Good communication and organization skills
Advantageous Qualifications:
- Background in plant-microbiome research
- Experience in plant genotyping and phenotyping
- Programming skills for bioinformatic analysis of large ‘omics datasets
Job Description: The PhD candidate will work on the ATTACC project, characterizing plant components controlling the root rhizosphere environment. Key responsibilities include:
- Executing the ATTACC project in collaboration with the Plant-Microbe Interactions research group at Utrecht University.
- Conducting wet-lab experiments involving transgenic plants, microbial communities, and bioinformatics analyses.
- Collaborating with data scientists to model and predict microbial community assembly and dynamics.
- Opportunities to steer the project in creative directions and contribute to teaching BSc and MSc students.
How to Apply: Interested candidates should apply by the deadline of 17 March 2024, via the Utrecht University application portal. Required documents include:
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum vitae
- Transcript of grades for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
Last Date for Apply: 17 March 2024
Disclaimer: This job post is based on information obtained from a reliable source. Applicants are encouraged to check the official Utrecht University website for further details and to verify the accuracy of the information provided.
Note: Please submit applications through the official application portal. Questions about the position can be directed to Dr. Ronnie de Jonge at r.dejonge@uu.nl. Inquiries about the application procedure should be sent to science.recruitment@uu.nl.







