Department of Plant and Microbial Biology/Agroecology and Plant-Microbiome Interactions
PhD Position: Exploring Ancient Microbiomes for a Sustainable Agriculture 80 %
Start of employment 1. February 2025
Microbes play a key role in ecosystems and regulate plant growth and ecosystem functioning. In previous studies, we have observed that microbes and microbial diversity can enhance plant productivity and promote ecosystem sustainability. However, the role of microbial community composition and the importance of specific microbes (e.g., keystone taxa) for plant growth and resistance to stress (e.g., drought) is still poorly understood. Here, you will test whether ancient plant-microbe interactions provide better protection against heat and drought stress and improve nutrient use efficiency for low-input agriculture compared to contemporary interactions. Using ancient microbiome data from past ecosystems, we will simulate ancient microbial communities and novel microbiomes to test their impact on plant growth and ecosystem performance. You will be part of the Ancient Environmental Genomics Initiative for Sustainability, a large consortium funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation with excellent contributing labs in Denmark, UK, Netherlands, Germany, USA, and South Korea.
Research will take place within the project Ancient Environmental Genomics Initiative for Sustainability, funded by Novo Nordisk Foundation. The research takes place at the Agroecology & Plant Microbiome Interactions Group at the University of Zurich and Agroscope (location Zurich). This is a dynamic group consisting of staff, technicians, Postdocs, PhDs, Students & Guests with approximately 25 members. The group focuses on plant-soil-microbe-interactions, soil biodiversity, the development of sustainable/ecological farming systems, and soil ecological engineering. The University of Zurich and Agroscope have excellent research facilities with well-equipped laboratories, greenhouses, climate chambers, and agricultural fields. You will enjoy flexible working hours and good social benefits.
Your responsibilities
* Design synthetic communities based on sequencing data from ancient sediments.
* Conduct microcosm, greenhouse, and field experiments.
* Evaluate the performance of synthetic communities under stress conditions (e.g. drought).
* Publish results in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
Your profile
* Master's degree in biology, microbiology, environmental science, or agronomy with excellent grades.
* Expertise in plant-microbe experiments, microcosm experiments, synthetic communities, and/or molecular skills to analyze microbial communities.
* Strong statistical skills would be an advantage.
* Good organizational, communication, and teamwork skills.
* High level of motivation and flexibility. An achievement-oriented and open-minded personality with good capacity for teamwork.
Information on your application
If you are interested in this position and fulfill the requirements, we look forward to receiving your online application consisting of a single PDF containing a CV, a summary of your research projects (e.g. Masters), and names of 2 referees. The position is for 4 years. Please submit your application by 15/12/2024. The position is open until filled. Start: 1. February or upon mutual agreement.
What we offer
Work-Life Balance
* Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
* Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
Learning and Development
* Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
* Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
Food
* Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
* Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
Healthcare
* Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
* Free seasonal flu vaccinations
* Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
Discounts
* Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
* Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
* Special conditions on hotel reservations
Conditions of Employment
* Policies of the UZH
* Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
International Services
* Support for people from outside Switzerland
Campuses
* Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon, and Schlieren
* Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden, and Lengg
Location
Department of Plant and Microbial Biology/Agroecology and Plant-Microbiome Interactions
Zollikerstrasse 107, 8008 Zürich, Switzerland
Further information
Questions about the job
Prof. Marcel Van der Heijden
Head of Department
+41 58 468 72 78
Questions about the application procedure
Jasmin Unternährer
HR-Manager
+41 44 634 82 06
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams, the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
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