The Spanish National Centre for Biotechnology (CNB), a leading research institute in Madrid, is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD position in Computational Microbial Biotechnology under the prestigious PIF2025 Fellowship. This position is part of the AMBIZIONE Project, a cutting-edge international initiative focused on the rational design of synthetic microbial communities (SynComs) through a combination of computational modeling and experimental research.

About the AMBIZIONE Project

AMBIZIONE (Advanced Microbiome Biotechnology Zips ONE HEALTH) is an innovative research program integrating ecological, biochemical, and evolutionary data to design microbial communities for applications in human health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

The project uses a wide range of state-of-the-art technologies, including:

• Advanced statistical analysis
• Metabolic modeling
• Multi-omics (OMICS) technologies
• Complex network analysis
• Artificial intelligence and machine learning

The ultimate aim is to build a robust SynCom design platform that can transform microbiome engineering for practical real-world solutions.

PhD Role and Key Responsibilities

As a PhD researcher in this project, you will:

• Develop theoretical and computational models for microbial community design
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams at CNB and partner institutions
• Contribute to high-impact publications and conference presentations
• Progressively shape and develop your own research ideas
• Actively participate in laboratory and institutional activities

Candidate Profile – Who Can Apply?

Ideal candidates should have:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or other quantitative fields
• Strong programming skills in Python, R, Julia, or C
• Experience with software development tools (Git, Nextflow, Snakemake)
• Interest in biological systems and microbiome research
• Fluency in English and excellent communication abilities

Funding and Benefits

Selected candidates will receive:

• 4-year fully funded PhD position under the PIF2025 Fellowship
• Competitive salary: €1,623.26/year (1st year) and €2,029.07/year (2nd–4th years)
• Coverage of lab fees and research expenses
• Access to national and international research collaborations
• Training in scientific research and career development
• Official enrollment in the PhD program at Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

Application Process

1. Prepare Your Documents:
   • Motivation Letter outlining your research interest and fit for the project
   • Updated CV with academic qualifications and technical expertise
2. Submit Your Application:
   Email your application to the project supervisors:
   • Alberto Pascual-García – alberto.pascualgrcia@gmail.com
   • Javier Nogales – jnogales@cnb.csic.es
     Subject line: PhD AMBIZIONE

Deadline: Applications remain open until the PIF2025 Fellowship deadline (expected September 2025). Early submission is strongly advised.

Why Apply?

This is an exceptional opportunity to join one of Europe’s leading microbiome research teams, work with cutting-edge computational and experimental methods, and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in synthetic microbial biotechnology.

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:

Click here to apply