Are you passionate about tackling the impacts of climate change on agriculture and biodiversity? Do you want to explore the intricate world of plant-pollinator-microbe interactions under climate stress? KU Leuven, one of Europe’s leading research universities, is offering a fully funded 4-year PhD position in microbial ecology, climate science, and pollination biology as part of its interdisciplinary project: “Pollinators under Pressure.”
🌍 PhD Research Focus: Climate Change, Nectar Microbiomes & Pollinator Behavior
Pollinators play a crucial role in securing global food production—over 35% of crops rely on insect pollination. However, the floral nectar they are attracted to isn’t just sugar water—it’s a dynamic microbial habitat. These nectar microbes produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that directly influence pollinator preferences and behavior.
With heatwaves and droughts intensifying due to climate change, this delicate balance between flowers, nectar microbes, and pollinators is at risk. This PhD project will investigate:
- 🌡️ How climate stress (heat and drought) affects microbial communities in the nectar of Brassica napus (oilseed rape), a major global crop.
- 🧬 Shifts in microbial taxonomic and functional composition, focusing on changes in VOC production.
- 🐝 Impact on bumblebee behavior, analyzed through both robotic flower systems and live plants subjected to altered nectar microbiomes.
This cutting-edge research blends molecular biology, microbial ecology, entomology, and chemical ecology—making it ideal for candidates interested in real-world, interdisciplinary science.
🧪 Host Lab & Supervisors
As a PhD researcher, you’ll be based at the Laboratory for Process Microbial Ecology and Bioinspirational Management (PME&BIM), within the Department of Microbial and Molecular Systems at KU Leuven, Belgium.
You will receive expert supervision from:
- Prof. Dr. Ir. Bart Lievens – Specialist in microbial-plant-insect interactions
- Prof. Dr. Joëlle Mühlemann – Renowned for her work in floral and chemical ecology
The lab provides an inclusive and collaborative environment, encouraging innovation and professional growth.
🎓 Candidate Requirements
To be considered for this exciting PhD opportunity in climate and microbial ecology, you should:
- Hold a Master’s degree in Biology, Bioengineering, or Engineering Technology (preferably with cum laude distinction)
- Have solid academic background in microbiology, molecular ecology, genomics, chemical ecology, or bioinformatics
- Be motivated, independent, and enthusiastic about interdisciplinary research
- Possess strong communication skills in English (written and spoken)
- Be open to contributing to teaching activities and mentoring within the team
💼 What KU Leuven Offers
KU Leuven is internationally recognized for excellence in research and innovation. As a PhD researcher, you will benefit from:
- 🧾 A 4-year full-time funded PhD contract starting October 1, 2025
- 💶 A competitive salary in line with KU Leuven’s PhD scale
- 👨👩👧👦 Full access to the Belgian social security system
- 🌐 Opportunities to attend international workshops, training, and conferences
- 🤝 A supportive, inclusive, and interdisciplinary lab culture
🌱 Why This PhD Matters: Impact on Food Security & Biodiversity
This PhD is not just about research—it’s about contributing to the global fight against climate change. Disruptions in nectar microbiomes may have serious consequences for pollination efficiency and agricultural productivity. Your research will provide critical insights into sustaining biodiversity and food security in a changing world.
This program offers a solid foundation for future careers in:
- 🧬 Academic research in microbial ecology, climate science, or pollination biology
- 🌾 Sustainable agriculture and biotechnology
- 🌍 Climate policy, conservation consulting, or ecological data science
📅 Application Deadline: July 31, 2025
To apply, visit the official KU Leuven application portal: