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

Why Choose This PhD in Sustainable Agriculture and Forestry?

As the world faces growing threats to food security, ecosystem health, and climate stability, the demand for highly trained experts in sustainable agriculture and forestry is at an all-time high. This doctoral program equips researchers with advanced skills in agricultural innovation, environmental protection, and forest system resilience, preparing them for global careers in academia, policymaking, industry, and beyond.

Program Highlights: Multidisciplinary Research with Global Impact

The program focuses on the interaction between agricultural, forestry, environmental, and socio-economic systems. Students will develop tools to evaluate, innovate, and manage these systems within the framework of sustainability.

Core Research Areas:

• Sustainable Intensification: Boost productivity while preserving ecological balance and long-term resilience.
• Climate Change Adaptation: Develop adaptive strategies for agriculture and forestry in vulnerable and climate-impacted regions.
• Plant Breeding, Genetics & Genomics: Use cutting-edge biotechnological tools to improve crop and forest species’ performance.
• Environmental Protection: Promote conservation and sustainable land use to safeguard biodiversity and natural resources.
• Soil-Plant Interactions: Study soil chemistry, microbiology, and plant health to support ecosystem restoration and productivity.
• Non-Food and Industrial Crops (Including Ornamentals): Diversify farming outputs for economic sustainability and climate-smart agriculture.

Who Should Apply?

This PhD program is ideal for candidates who want to:

• Tackle real-world problems in climate change, sustainable land use, and global food systems
• Conduct high-impact research with international relevance
• Work in multidisciplinary teams with access to field stations, labs, and experimental farms

Eligibility Criteria:

• A Master’s degree or equivalent in agriculture, forestry, biology, environmental sciences, or related disciplines
• Strong academic background and research interests aligned with the program
• International degrees are welcome and will be evaluated for equivalency

Application Deadline: July 7, 2025 – 12:00 PM (Noon CET)

Apply early to secure your spot! All applicants should submit their documents through the official application portal.

Online Application Portal: https://pica.cineca.it/unina/dottorato41/
Contact Email: phdnafedericoii@unina.it
Official Call for Applications: University Website – PhD Admissions

Study in Italy: A Hub of Culture and Research Excellence

Located in the vibrant city of Naples, the University of Naples Federico II offers an intellectually stimulating and culturally rich environment. As one of Italy’s oldest and most renowned public universities, it boasts state-of-the-art laboratories, international collaborations, and access to diverse ecosystems for research.

Launch Your Global Research Career Today!

If you’re looking to advance your career in sustainable agriculture, forestry, or environmental sciences, this PhD program offers the perfect platform. With fully funded positions, access to international research networks, and a clear focus on real-world sustainability, your journey toward becoming a global research leader starts here.

Job Location

• Current Location: Agroscope, Zürich
• Planned Relocation: Schwerzenbach, Switzerland
• Start Date: 01 September 2025 or as agreed
• Contract Duration: Temporary (until 31 August 2028)
• Reference Code: JRQ$540-15362

Project Overview: Advancing Transgene-Free Genome Editing in Potatoes

This research project aims to develop climate-resilient potato varieties that are drought-tolerant and disease-resistant through transgene-free genome editing technologies. The project integrates advanced molecular biology, genome sequencing, and phenotypic analysis in both greenhouse and field environments.

Collaborate with world-renowned institutions including:

• Wageningen University, Netherlands
• Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Sweden

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of sustainable crop development in Europe.

Key Responsibilities

As a postdoctoral researcher, you will:

• Design and implement targeted genome editing in potatoes
• Monitor editing events using real-time PCR and sequencing techniques
• Perform heat stress and disease resistance assays in greenhouses and field trials
• Conduct phenotypic assessments of GM potato field trials
• Collaborate with bioinformatics teams to analyze genomic and epigenomic effects
• Attend and present at international research consortium meetings

Candidate Profile: Who Should Apply?

Ideal candidates will have:

• A PhD in crop science, molecular breeding, plant biotechnology, or related field
• Hands-on experience in molecular biology, preferably with long-read sequencing
• A solid publication record in peer-reviewed international journals
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to work across diverse research teams
• Bonus: Experience in genomic analysis and bioinformatics
• Language Proficiency: English (mandatory) and at least one official Swiss language (preferred)

Why This Postdoc Matters: Sustainability & Innovation

Join a cutting-edge initiative shaping the future of climate-smart agriculture. This role offers the opportunity to:

• Contribute to transgene-free genome editing innovations
• Accelerate the breeding of climate-resilient crops
• Apply bioinformatics to monitor genome-wide editing impacts
• Help reduce the use of agrochemicals in European potato farming

About Agroscope – Excellence in Agricultural Research

Agroscope is the Swiss Federal Centre of Excellence for Agricultural Research, operating under the Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER). Agroscope focuses on:

• Food security
• Environmental sustainability
• Modern agricultural innovation

With a strong network of national and international collaborations, Agroscope supports science-driven solutions for sustainable food systems.

Project Location Details

• Current Site: Reckenholzstrasse 191, 8046 Zürich, Switzerland
• Future Site: 8603 Schwerzenbach, Switzerland (relocation planned mid-project)
• Principal Investigator: Dr. Etienne Bucher, Group Leader

How to Apply

Ready to make an impact in agricultural genomics?
Apply now through the official Agroscope application portal. Be sure to mention the Reference Code JRQ$540-15362 in your application.

About the ALLEcoSys Project: Advancing Agroecology Across Europe

The ALLEcoSys (Agroecological Living Labs EcoSystem) project aims to transform Europe’s agri-food systems by promoting resilient, biodiversity-rich, and sustainable agricultural practices.

Key Focus Areas:

• Restoring soil health
• Enhancing on-farm biodiversity
• Implementing natural pest and disease control
• Socioeconomic evaluation of sustainable farming methods

This project unites experts and institutions from six European countries—France, Germany, Romania, Denmark, Norway, and Ireland—in a collaborative network of Living Labs that blend traditional knowledge with modern science.

Postdoctoral Research Position: Microbiome Analysis in Agroecological Systems

Host Institute:

Résistance Induite et Bioprotection des Plantes (RIBP)
Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, Reims, France

Position Details:

• Start Date: September 2025
• Contract Duration: 3 Years
• Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

Research Focus:

You will contribute to two key work packages within the ALLEcoSys project:

• WP3: Analyzing the impact of agroecological practices on soil microbiomes
• WP4: Investigating how crop diversification and biocontrol enhance resilience

This position offers hands-on research experience across diverse European field sites, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams working in real-world agricultural settings.

Ideal Candidate Profile

We are looking for a motivated postdoctoral researcher with strong expertise in microbial analysis and sustainable agriculture.

Required Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Agricultural Sciences, Biology, or related field
• Proficiency in microbial ecology, metagenomics, and bioinformatics (especially R and Python)
• Experience in soil and plant microbial community analysis
• Strong teamwork, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Fluent in English (spoken and written)

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following documents in a single PDF file:

• A letter of interest
• A comprehensive CV
• Two reference letters

Submission Email:

[Insert official contact email here]

Learn More About the Project

For complete details about the ALLEcoSys initiative and its mission to foster agroecological transitions in Europe, visit the official project website:

ALLEcoSys Project – agroecologypartnership.eu

About the UKUDLA PhD Scholarship Program

The UKUDLA (United Knowledge for Development and Learning in Agriculture) initiative is committed to developing innovative, data-driven solutions for global agricultural challenges. Selected PhD candidates will work with advanced technologies and analytical tools to generate real-world impact through interdisciplinary research.

This prestigious program fosters international academic collaboration, offering scholars the chance to partner with leading universities and research institutions around the world. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, food systems innovation, and digital agriculture, UKUDLA is shaping the future of food and environmental research in Africa and beyond.

Program Highlights

• Fully funded PhD with a €900 monthly stipend
• Focus on sustainable agriculture, food systems, and data science
• Access to global research networks and international collaboration
• Connect with experts across academia and industry
• Opportunities for career development and high-impact projects

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the 2025 UKUDLA PhD Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in any of the following or related fields:
  • Agriculture
  • Food Science
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Data Science
  • Engineering
  • Economics
• A strong academic record and proven research potential
• High proficiency in written and spoken English
• A genuine interest in sustainability, agri-food systems, and data innovation
• Open exclusively to African nationals aiming to lead in sustainable agricultural research

Application Deadline: June 1, 2025

All interested candidates must submit their application through the official UKUDLA application portal before the deadline.

Apply Now on the UKUDLA Official Website

For questions or technical support during the application process, please contact the UKUDLA support team through the contact details provided on their official site.

Why You Should Apply

This is more than a scholarship—it’s a career-defining opportunity. As a UKUDLA scholar, you will:

• Contribute to Africa’s food security and sustainable development
• Conduct research that has real-world impact
• Build a strong network with global academics and industry professionals
• Become a future leader in the fields of agriculture, data science, and environmental sustainability

Don’t miss your chance to make a difference! Apply for the 2025 UKUDLA PhD Scholarship today and become a part of Africa’s data-driven future in sustainable agriculture.

The University of Galway is offering an exciting, fully-funded PhD scholarship focused on Phytate-Utilising Bacteria for improving soil health and plant growth. This prestigious opportunity is hosted by the College of Science and Engineering and provides extensive training in microbial genomics, molecular biology, and advanced microbiology techniques.

About the University of Galway

Situated in the lively cultural city of Galway, Ireland, the University of Galway (formerly NUI Galway) is renowned for its world-class research and teaching excellence. With over 18,000 students and 2,400 staff, it is a hub for scientific innovation, tackling global challenges and promoting sustainable solutions across multiple disciplines.

Research Focus: Phytate-Utilising Bacteria for Sustainable Agriculture

Modern agriculture faces critical challenges due to the heavy reliance on rock phosphate fertilizers, sourced mainly from Morocco and Russia. With global phosphate reserves under threat, sustainable alternatives are urgently needed.

This PhD research project will explore how phytate-utilising bacteria can unlock phosphorus bound in soil, making it available for plant uptake. By understanding the genetic mechanisms behind phytate degradation, this project aims to develop biofertilizers that reduce dependency on rock phosphate, enhancing soil fertility and promoting sustainable agriculture.

Key Research Objectives:

• Investigate the genetic basis of phytate utilisation in soil bacteria.
• Evaluate the ecological importance of different phytate degradation systems across various ecosystems.
• Design and develop microbial biofertilizers to boost soil health and plant productivity sustainably.

The project will utilize state-of-the-art technologies such as next-generation DNA sequencing, genomics, molecular biology, and advanced microbiology techniques, offering the candidate hands-on experience with cutting-edge research tools.

Supervision and Support

The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr. Paul Sheridan, an expert in microbial genomics, physiology, and genetics. Dr. Sheridan’s pioneering research continues to advance our understanding of microbial systems and their application in agricultural sustainability and environmental health.

Scholarship Details

• Annual Living Allowance: €25,000 (tax-exempt)
• University Fees: Fully covered by the scholarship
• Duration: Starting from 1st September 2025
• Eligibility Criteria:
  Applicants must hold, or expect to hold by September 2025, a minimum of an upper second-class honours degree (2.1) in Microbiology or a closely related field.

How to Apply

To apply for this PhD scholarship, candidates must submit the following documents:

• A cover letter explaining your interest in the project and your suitability for the position.
• An updated CV detailing academic qualifications and relevant experience.
• Contact information for two academic referees.

Application Submission:
Send your application via email to Dr. Paul Sheridan at sheridanlabrecruit@gmail.com by 30th May 2025 (5:00 PM Irish Time).

Why Pursue Your PhD at the University of Galway?

• World-Class Research Facilities: Access to cutting-edge laboratories and resources.
• Real-World Impact: Contribute to global solutions for food security and sustainable farming.
• Comprehensive Research Training: Gain expertise in genomics, microbial biotechnology, and molecular techniques.
• Career Development: Be part of a vibrant research community and enhance your academic and professional profile.

Start your journey toward making a lasting impact in sustainable agriculture and soil health research. Apply today and join the University of Galway’s commitment to shaping a better future!