Join one of Europe’s most innovative research teams and work on real-world problems affecting apple orchards in South Tyrol, Italy.

PhD Position 1: Ecological Study of Woolly Apple Aphid (Eriosoma lanigerum) in Organic Apple Orchards

Research Overview:

This project focuses on studying the infestation patterns of woolly apple aphids in apple orchards. These pests pose a significant threat to organic apple production in the South Tyrol region.

Project Objectives:

• Investigate ecological and agronomic factors influencing aphid spread.
• Apply multifactorial modeling techniques on extensive field data.
• Develop eco-friendly and sustainable pest control strategies for local farmers.

Candidate Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Agricultural Sciences, Biological Sciences, Ecology, or Biotechnology.
• Experience with field surveys, data analysis, and ecological modeling.
• Valid driver’s license (for independent fieldwork).

Key Research Activities:

• Conduct orchard phenology and soil surveys.
• Analyze physiological and ecological data.
• Perform statistical modeling using multifactorial approaches.

PhD Position 2: Molecular Identification of Parasitoids in Asian Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys) Eggs

Research Overview:

This PhD position explores the molecular ecology of parasitoid wasps in the egg masses of the invasive Asian stink bug. It aims to support biological pest control programs.

Project Objectives:

• Assess the effectiveness of Trissolcus japonicus as a biological control agent.
• Investigate interactions between native and introduced parasitoids.
• Use next-generation sequencing (NGS) to uncover cryptic parasitoid species.

Candidate Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Agricultural Sciences, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• Strong background in molecular biology and bioinformatics.
• Field experience and proficiency in English.

Key Research Activities:

• Collect stink bug egg masses in the field.
• Rear parasitoids in the laboratory.
• Conduct DNA-based analysis of unhatched eggs.

Why Choose the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano?

• Located in the scenic Alps with access to diverse ecosystems
• Trilingual teaching environment (English, Italian, German)
• Access to the renowned Competence Centre for Plant Health
• Collaborative research with Schuler Lab and Laimburg Research Centre
• Strong focus on applied, interdisciplinary research

Important Application Information

• Application Deadline: June 11, 2025, at 12:00 noon (CET)
• Start Date: November 2025
• Funding: Fully funded (tuition + stipend)
• Location: South Tyrol, Northern Italy

Contact for Informal Inquiries:

Dr. Hannes Schuler
Email: hannes.schuler@unibz.it

Visit the Competence Centre for Plant Health
Explore the Schuler Lab
Apply via the Official PhD Program Portal

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