Project: Soil microbial farming to increase plant productivity

Project description: In this project you will investigate the tripartite, Plant Growth Promoting  Microbes (PGPM)-plant-soil microbiome interaction in plant quality and productivity using state-of-the-art ‘omics’ and bioinformatics approaches to investigate facilitation (positive interactions) and competition (negative interactions) by both microbes and PGPM within the plant realized niche. In this project you will integrate approaches to obtain a fundamental understanding of these tripartite interactions in a smart microbiome engineered plant production system for sustainable high-quality crop production.

We are looking for a highly motivated and skilled PhD candidate, interested in curiosity-driven research who can work in a multidisciplinary team in a collaborative spirit. The PhD candidate should have degree in Biology, Soil sciences, Agronomy; proven interest in microbial ecology; interest in fundamental research; experience with experimental research on soil microbiology, soil microbial ecology or plant-microbe interaction; experience with statistics; ability to work independently; organizational and communication skills; proficient in English, written and spoken. Experience with molecular and genomics/post genomics techniques and bioinformatics are welcome.

Gross salary starts at € 1.812,80 per month in the 1st year, and will gradually increase to a maximum of € 2.317,60- per month in the 4th year, scale P, Collective Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO Nederlandse Universiteiten), excluding 8% holiday pay and a year-end bonus.

Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)

The Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) is an Academy research institute. It conducts ecological research on land, in the ocean and in fresh water and studies how living organisms interact with one another and their environment. NIOO stimulates biodiversity and sustainability in nature and society through its worldwide network of researchers, policymakers, conservationists and other stakeholders.