PhD Scholarship on Reproductive Microbiomes: A fully funded PhD Scholarship is currently available at the Department of Animal Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), in Wageningen. The selected candidate will work on an ERC-funded project focusing on avian reproductive microbiomes and their impact on host fitness and evolution in wild animals. The project aims to investigate the role of host genetics and immune functioning in shaping reproductive microbiome variability.
SCHOLARSHIP AT A GLANCE:
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Type | Fully funded PhD Scholarship |
| Institution | Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), Wageningen |
| Project Focus | Avian reproductive microbiomes and their impact on host fitness and evolution |
| Eligibility | Master’s degree in ecology/evolution, molecular biology, microbial ecology, or related discipline |
| Excellent English communication skills | |
| Preferred experience with bird fieldwork | |
| Proficiency in quantitative analysis and R statistical software | |
| Responsibilities | Conduct quantitative genetics studies, fieldwork, laboratory analysis, data analysis, manuscript preparation, and student supervision |
| Application Requirements | Cover letter, CV, names of 3 professional referees |
| Application Deadline | September 15, 2024 |
| Interview Dates | September 23/24, 2024 |
| Start Date | November 2024 or as mutually agreed |
Fact About Netherlands Institute of Ecology
- Largest Ecological Research Hub: NIOO-KNAW is the largest group of fundamental ecologists in the Netherlands, employing over 200 researchers dedicated to understanding ecosystems.
- Cradle-to-Cradle Philosophy: The institute’s building is designed based on sustainable principles, aiming to be the most environmentally friendly research facility globally, utilizing renewable materials and energy-efficient technologies.
- Historical Roots: Established in 1992 from three merged research centers, NIOO has origins dating back to 1954, showcasing decades of ecological research evolution.
- Diverse Research Themes: NIOO focuses on critical areas like biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable land and water use, contributing significantly to global ecological challenges.
- Innovative Studies: Research includes groundbreaking studies on the ecological roles of toxic cyanobacteria, the personalities of birds, and the impacts of climate change on species adaptation.
- Global Impact: NIOO collaborates internationally, studying ecosystems from the Amazon to the Galapagos, emphasizing the importance of microbial diversity in ecosystem health.
- Interdisciplinary Approach: The institute employs advanced technologies and methodologies, integrating microbiology, molecular biology, and computational methods to explore complex ecological interactions.
Eligibility For 2024 Scholarship on Reproductive Microbiomes, Wageningen
- Master’s degree in ecology/evolution, molecular biology, microbial ecology, or a related discipline
- Excellent communication skills in English
- Experience with bird field work is highly preferred
- Proficiency in quantitative analysis, handling big datasets, and experience with R statistical software and linear mixed models
Description For 2024 Scholarship on Reproductive Microbiomes, Wageningen
The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting quantitative genetics studies to ascertain the link between microbiome variation and individual fitness in a wild population. The research will involve fieldwork to collect samples from wild birds, laboratory analysis, bioinformatic and statistical analysis of data, manuscript preparation, and supervision of students. Additionally, there is potential for the candidate to develop complementary avenues of research.
How To Apply For 2024 Scholarship on Reproductive Microbiomes, Wageningen
Interested candidates are required to submit the following documents in English:
- Cover letter indicating motivation and relevant experience for the position
- CV
- Names of 3 professional referees (name, address, telephone & email)
Deadline for Application: September 15th, initial (online) interviews scheduled for September 23/24th, with a starting date in November 2024 or as mutually agreed.
Source: https://vacatures.knaw.nl/