PhD Scholarship: Soil Microbiome: An exciting opportunity for a highly motivated candidate to undertake a fully funded PhD position at the Centre for Crop Systems and Analysis, Plant Sciences Group at Wageningen University & Research. This scholarship focuses on understanding and applying soil microbiome effects on (parasitic) weed seed germination and viability, with a specific emphasis on addressing the detrimental impact of parasitic weeds such as Striga on arable crops in Africa.
Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: Understanding and Applying Soil Microbiome-Mediated Control of Parasitic Weeds
Designation: PhD Research Scholar
Research Area: Soil Microbiome-Mediated Control of Parasitic Weeds
Location: Wageningen, Netherlands
Eligibility/Qualification:
- A successfully completed MSc degree in plant or soil sciences, with a keen interest in arable crops, weed ecology, and management; OR
- A successfully completed MSc degree in microbiology with documented experience in plant experimental research.
- Proficiency in experimental research and data analysis.
- Effective communication skills with scientific and non-scientific stakeholders.
- Willingness to engage in fieldwork, particularly in Africa.
- Ability to work within a multidisciplinary project and strong project/time management skills.
- Proficiency in English at C1 level; French proficiency is an advantage.
Job Description:
The successful candidate will:
- Identify and prioritize locally available high-potential sulfur-rich organic sources and companion crop species that stimulate soil bacteria to overproduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) inhibiting or killing Striga seeds.
- Design and execute lab, greenhouse, and field experiments to investigate mechanisms, test effectiveness, and assess feasibility of applications for controlling Striga.
- Analyze and interpret data from experiments to address both fundamental and applied research questions.
- Communicate results through scientific publications and international workshops.
- Develop a PhD thesis and contribute to the teaching portfolio of the group.
- Field test control options in sorghum, millet, or rice crops in Africa, evaluating effectiveness and feasibility for smallholder farmers.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates can apply directly through the “apply” button on the vacancy page of the Wageningen University & Research website. The application should include a motivation letter of up to 500 words and a CV limited to 2 pages.
Last Date for Apply: 18 November 2024
This fully funded PhD position offers an opportunity to work in an international environment with excellent employee benefits, including a tailored course program and a competitive gross salary. Join our innovative research team and contribute to developing new Striga control options to benefit smallholder farmers in Africa.
