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

The Goldar Lab, located within the School of Biological Sciences at Illinois State University (ISU), is now accepting applications for fully funded PhD and MSc positions in Evolutionary Ecology starting in Spring, Summer, or Fall 2026.

About the Research Lab

Led by Dr. Xosé López Goldar, the lab focuses on evolutionary and ecological dynamics of plant-insect relationships, particularly in response to environmental stressors and chemical defenses. Using both controlled experiments and fieldwork, the lab integrates Plant Defense Theory and other classical ecological models to explore adaptation in changing ecosystems.

Core Research Themes:

• Plant Defense Mechanisms across organs and ecosystems
• Climate Stressors & Insect Interactions (mutualism vs. antagonism)
• Predictive Modeling of species performance under global change
• Chemical Signaling, Herbivory, and Pollination Ecology
• Eco-physiology and Biotic Stress Responses

Research activities span greenhouses, growth chambers, molecular labs, and natural field sites.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for highly motivated and collaborative students interested in Evolutionary Ecology, Chemical Ecology, or Climate Adaptation Biology.

Minimum Requirements:

• BSc (for MSc) or MSc (for PhD) in Biology or a related field
• Strong interest in plant-insect interactions, climate change, or evolutionary biology
• English proficiency (spoken and written)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Research experience with plants, insects, or chemical ecology
• Knowledge of population genetics or ecological statistics
• Academic writing or publication experience

Funding Package & Research Facilities

All admitted graduate students are fully funded through Teaching Assistantships or Research Assistantships, which include:

• Full Tuition Waiver
• Competitive Monthly Stipend
• Access to Research Facilities:
  • Greenhouses
  • Growth chambers
  • Molecular biology laboratories
  • Diverse field sites

ISU also promotes interdisciplinary collaboration with programs in conservation biology, neuroethology, and microbiology.

Life in Normal, Illinois

Illinois State University is located in Normal, Illinois—a city known for:

• Low cost of living
• High quality of life
• Excellent access to parks and outdoor recreation
• Easy travel to Chicago, St. Louis, and other major cities

Application Process

Interested candidates should apply by emailing Dr. Xosé López Goldar at xlopezg@ilstu.edu with a single PDF that includes:

1. A brief research statement (interests, experience, career goals)
2. Your CV or résumé
3. A writing sample (e.g., thesis, manuscript, or publication)
4. Contact information for up to 3 references

Final Thoughts

This is a rare opportunity for fully funded graduate study in the USA focused on evolutionary ecology, plant-insect interactions, and climate resilience. Whether you’re aiming for a career in academia, environmental research, or conservation policy, this program provides the ideal foundation.