PhD Position on Microbes for Stress Resilient Roots

Are you passionate about contributing to climate-resilient crop plants and exploring the fascinating relationship between microbes and plant stress resilience? Utrecht University offers an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and curious candidate to embark on a four-year full-time journey as a PhD candidate. Dive into the world of plant stress resilience and microbial interactions to shape a sustainable future for agriculture.

---

Job Description:

At Utrecht University, we have recently uncovered the microbes responsible for inducing cell-type-specific-stress resilience in sorghum roots. Your research project will focus on understanding the mechanisms of action of this innovative group of microbes and how they modulate plant stress responses. Your primary objectives will include:

• Characterizing the transcriptional changes induced in plant roots by selected microbes.
• Identifying crucial plant- and microbe-derived signals that establish their interactions.
• Defining the dynamics and robustness of microbial activity and its impact on plant stress resilience.

To achieve these goals, you will employ a range of techniques and tools, such as histology and microscopy, genomics, comparative gene expression analyses, high-throughput phenotyping, and plant physiology. You will be responsible for conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting your findings through manuscripts and oral presentations. In addition to your research activities, you will have the opportunity to develop your teaching skills, mentor undergraduate students, and participate in outreach activities.

---

Qualifications:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated candidate with the following qualifications:

• A Master’s degree (MSc) in Plant Biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Strong interest in plant developmental biology and plant-environment interactions.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.
• An eagerness to contribute actively to the team’s objectives, collaborate with fellow team members, and apply creative and independent thinking.

It is considered a plus if you have:

• Affinity with plant-microbe interactions and/or plant physiology.
• Experience with microscopy and molecular biology techniques.
• Basic bioinformatic skills (e.g., basic command of R).

---

• PhD Studentship: Investigating the Influence of the Gut Microbiome on Host Metabolism
• PhD Position on Water-Carbon-Nutrient Dynamics for More Resilient Landscapes in Dutch Sandy Soils
• PhD Positions – Quantitative Plant Sciences in Germany
• Zamfara State Governor Bans Illegal Mining
• GOC Advocates Functional Collaboration Among Security Agencies

Offer:

We provide:

• An exciting research project focused on innovative approaches to enhance plant stress resilience.
• A four-year position.
• A full-time gross salary starting at €2,770 per month, increasing to €3,539 (scale P of the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities).
• Additional benefits including an 8% holiday bonus, 8.3% end-of-year bonus, a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave, and flexible employment conditions.
• Opportunities for professional development, leave arrangements, sports and cultural schemes, and discounts on software and IT products.
• The chance to expand your terms of employment through the Employment Conditions Selection Model.

---

About the Organization:

Utrecht University is dedicated to shaping a better future for all through leading research and inspiring teaching. The university emphasizes collaboration across various disciplines to address significant strategic themes. The focus includes Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences, and Pathways to Sustainability.

You will work in the dynamic team of Dr. Dorota Kawa, embedded in the Plant Stress Resilience and Plant-Environment Signaling chair groups. This interdisciplinary environment offers access to world-class research facilities and extensive national/international collaborations, including those with industry, facilitating network building and essential to future job prospects.

---

Additional Information:

For more information about this position, please contact Dr. Dorota Kawa via d.kawa@uu.nl. If you have questions about the application procedure, please send an email to science.recruitment@uu.nl.

Application Deadline: 1 November 2023

---

Apply: Application Link

---

Join us to become a fundamental connection in advancing sustainable agriculture. Apply today!

---