PhD (m/f/d) in Applied Agroecology/Chemical Ecology”Effects of global change on the distribution and toxicity of grass endophytes in Germany”

Rationale:
Endophytes, particularly the fungi of the genus Epichloë, play a significant role in plant ecology by producing alkaloids that can protect their host plants from various threats. This PhD position aims to investigate the occurrence and toxicity of endophytic fungi in grass species across different types of grasslands in Germany, and how global change influences their distribution and effects.

Requirements:
Applicants for the PhD position should have the following qualifications:

• MSc degree (or equivalent) in ecology, biology, agricultural sciences, or related disciplines.
• Strong interest in agroecology, endophytic fungi, and chemical ecology.
• Laboratory skills in GC-MS, HPLC-MS, or multiplex PCR are advantageous.
• Basic knowledge of field survey campaigns, field experiments, and statistics (preferably using R).
• Proficiency in English (speaking and writing); German skills are required for fieldwork and public relations.
• Valid driving license for Germany.

Tasks:
The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• Sampling grass from various grassland types across Germany.
• Conducting a sowing experiment with seed mixtures.
• Analyzing grass samples using GC-MS, HPLC-MS, and multiplex PCR in collaboration with partners.
• Engaging with horse breeders, farmers, and seed companies.
• Performing statistical analyses and scientific writing.

Salary and Conditions:
The PhD position will be part-time (65%) for three years, with the possibility of a 6-month extension. Salaries will be according to the wages-agreement (TV-L). The University of Würzburg is an equal opportunity employer, encouraging female scientists and disabled applicants to apply. The PhD thesis will consist of a series of English manuscripts. The position is based in Würzburg, Germany, and offers membership in the Graduate School of Life Sciences. Conferences and collaborations with partners in the USA and New Zealand are part of the project.

Application:
Applications should be sent as a single PDF file to j.krauss@uni-wuerzburg.de and buenger@biozentrum.uni-wuerzburg.de by September 11, 2023. Interviews for invited candidates will be held in Würzburg or online around September 18-19, 2023. Application materials should include a cover letter, a short summary of research interests, CV, certificates (A-level, BSc, MSc), driver’s license certificate, information on German and English skills, and the names and contact details of two potential referees.

For Further Information:
Contact Prof. Dr. Jochen Krauss, Department of Animal Ecology and Tropical Biology, Biocentre, University of Würzburg, Germany. Email: j.krauss@uni-wuerzburg.de, Phone: 0931-3182382. Cooperation partners for chemical analyses: Prof. Dr. Nicole van Dam (iDiv, Jena, HPLC-MS) and Prof. Dr. Thomas Schmitt (Würzburg, GC-MS).