PhD Position on Microbiome-Driven Crop Nutrition

With the pressing need to reduce the use of synthetic fertilizers, this PhD project explores the microbial interplay between sulfur and nitrogen metabolism in crops like soybean. By utilising advanced metagenomics, transcriptomics, and elemental analysis, the project aims to identify plant-microbe regulatory networks that enhance crop nutrition and resilience. Benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, interdisciplinary collaborations, and a vibrant scientific community at Utrecht University.

Your job
As a PhD candidate, you will:

• conduct research on the interactions between plant-associated microbiomes and nutrient metabolism, focusing on sulfur and nitrogen pathways;
• design and perform experiments using molecular, biochemical, and microbiological techniques to study nutrient uptake and utilization in crops;
• analyse large dataset derived from omics technologies, including metagenomics and metabolomics, to uncover microbial contributions to plant nutrition;
• collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and engage with experts in microbiome research, plant science, and sustainable agriculture;
• publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present your work at national and international conferences;
• contribute to teaching or mentoring activities within the research group as part of your professional development.

This role offers you an exciting opportunity to develop innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture while advancing your career in plant-microbe interactions.

Requirements:

We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate with:

• a Master’s degree in plant sciences, microbiology, molecular biology, or a related field;
• demonstrated research skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, or microbiology techniques;
• knowhow in data analysis and familiarity with omics tools like metagenomics or transcriptomics;
• excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal;
• ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment.

Nice-to-have qualifications:

• familiarity with machine learning or statistical tools for data modeling like predicting microbial interactions that enhance crop nutrient efficiency;
• experience with plant-microbiome research and interest in working with crops.

If you feel that this role is the perfect match, but you do not yet meet all the qualifications, we also welcome you to apply.

Salary Benefits:

We offer:

• a full-time position for four years;
• a gross monthly salary ranging from €2,901 in the first year and increasing to €3,707 in the fourth year in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University has a number of schemes and facilities of its own for employees. This includes schemes facilitating professional development, leave schemes and schemes for sports and cultural activities, as well as discounts on software and other IT products. We also offer access to additional employee benefits through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage our employees to continue to invest in their growth. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

36 - 40 hours per week

Padualaan 8