About the Center and Lab
The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology (PSB) is a world-leading plant science institute located at the heart of a renowned Plant Biotech campus in the wonderful city of Ghent, Belgium. Its mission is to integrate genetics, bio-computing, and omics approaches to unravel plant biological processes and to translate this knowledge into value for society. Please visit us at
www.psb.ugent.be
for more information.
The Goormachtig/Rhizosphere lab performs research in the area of beneficial plant-microbe interactions. The lab has a long-lasting experience in the molecular communication between rhizobia bacteria and legume plants, a research topic in which this project is embedded. For more information:
https://www.goormachtiglab.be/
Job description
We are looking for a PhD student in plant-microbe interactions to join our team from 1.01.2025 onward for a period of 4 years. The position is in the frame of a research grant (fundamental science for application, SBO, FWO, Flanders) entitled: MATCHMAKING: Unveiling Optimal Soybean-Rhizobia Matches in North-western European Environments
The project is situated within the European effort to introduce soybean as a protein crop for sustainable agriculture in Northwestern Europe. In collaborative effort with Ghent University and ILVO, we will pinpoint optimal soybean-rhizobia combinations for efficient nitrogen fixation when applied at northern latitudes, gain profound insights into the genetic underpinnings of these interactions, and uncover plant growth promoting rhizobacteria that enhance the symbiotic relationship. Our project paves the way for sustainable high-protein soybean production in North-western Europe, with the potential to benefit high-latitude regions worldwide.
We are looking for a highly motivated student with an interest in plant-microbe interactions and with an education in plant molecular biology and plant physiology.
Additionally, the student will also work in de lab of Pascal Boeckx on de development of stable isotope markers for efficient nodulation. For more information, visit the website:
https://www.ugent.be/bw/gct/en/research/isofys/isofys2.htm
Profile
We are looking for:
A master in Life Sciences or Bioscience-engineering
Hands-on experience in molecular plant-microbe interactions
You love to take initiative and are a team player
You have a strong perseverance and critical mindset
Organization and communication are your talents.
We offer
A 2+2 year position starting around January 2025
Access to cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure within an excellence-based research institute.
A stimulating and supportive scientific environment
How to apply?
If you're interested, please complete the online application procedure, including a detailed CV and a motivation letter.
The application deadline is November 24, 2024. Applications by email will not be considered.