PhD in Plant-Microbe interaction

SLU Department of Plant Breeding performs research and education addressing global challenges affecting our livelihoods and the environment. Within the plant breeding division, much of the work is focused on mapping the diversity, genetics and effects of interactions between genotype and environment, for different characteristics of plants. The acquired knowledge is then used to use conventional and new plant breeding methods to produce appropriate varieties in economically important plant species.

Read more about our benefits and what it is like to work at SLU at https://www.slu.se/en/about-slu/work-at-slu/

The role of small RNAs in plant-microbe interactions is poorly understood. As a doctoral student, you will investigate Potato-Phytophthora infestans interactions with reference to small RNAs. You will study the cross-kingdom transport of small RNAs between potato and potato/Nicotiana benthamiana. You will thus have the unique opportunity to be involved in a project in close collaboration with RNA biologists and plant pathologists. You will have the possibility to network with number of researchers from different domains and stakeholders through various seminars and events organized by SLU.

For this position, the applicants must have completed or in the process of completion of higher university degree (master of science) in biology, plant breeding, biotechnology, horticulture, or agronomy, emphasizing plant pathology, mycology, microbiology, molecular biology, plant breeding, and plant protection or equivalent.

Documented laboratory work experience in molecular biology, plant pathology, small RNA studies and biological control is merit. The applicant should have the ability to work independently as well as in a team in a robust research environment. The candidate should have good communication skills (both oral and written) and a strong work ethic and be prepared to participate in teaching and supervision of master students.

Alnarp

Employment (4 years) 

According to agreement. 

Click the “Apply” button to submit your application. The deadline is 2024-07-17.

To qualify for third-cycle (Doctoral) courses and study programmes, you must have a second-cycle (Master’s) qualification. Alternatively, you must have conducted a minimum of four years of full-time study, of which a minimum of one year at second-cycle level.

Applicants will be selected based on their written application and CV, degree project, copies of their degree certificate and transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution, two personal references, and knowledge of English. More information about the English language requirements can be found here: https://www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/application-admission-doctoral-studies/english-language-requirements/

Please note that applicants invited to interview must submit attested copies of their degree certificate, or equivalent, a transcript of records from previous first and second-cycle studies at a university or higher education institution. Applicants who are not Swedish citizens need to submit an attested copy of their passport’s information page containing their photograph and personal details.

Read about the PhD education at SLU at www.slu.se/en/education/programmes-courses/doctoral-studies/

https://internt.slu.se/en/my-employment/employee-associations/kontaktpersoner-vid-rekrytering/

The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) has a key role in the development for sustainable life, based on science and education. Through our focus on the interaction between humans, animals and ecosystems and the responsible use of natural resources, we contribute to sustainable societal development and good living conditions on our planet. Our main campuses are located in Alnarp, Umeå and Uppsala, however, the university also operates at research stations, experimental forests and teaching sites throughout Sweden.

SLU has around 3,000 employees, 5,000 students and doctoral students and a turnover of over SEK 3 billion. We are investing in attractive environments on all of our campuses. We strive to provide a work environment characterised by inclusivity and gender equality, where different experiences generate conversations between people and pave the way for science, creativity and development. Therefore, we welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Contact person

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