Universität Basel: PhD position in Plant Microbiome Interactions PhD position in Plant Microbiome Interactions 100% / start upon agreement The research group Plant Microbe Interactions at the Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel ( https://duw.unibas.ch/en/plant-microbe-interactions/ ) is welcoming applications for a PhD position. We investigate fundamental questions in plant microbiome biology, to uncover how root microbes contribute to plant growth or defence. The open position is part of the Swiss National Science Foundation SNSF project 'Decoding plant growth in response to complex soil microbiomes' that aims to uncover the mechanistic basis why certain genotypes grow better on certain soil microbiomes. Your position Little is known how plants perceive complex soil microbiomes and how plants integrate microbiome inputs into growth and defence. A large screening of Arabidopsis for growth on contrasting soil microbiomes pointed to an involvement of immune processes in roots. You will systematically explore new candidate loci and continue with a non-canonical immune receptor; investigating localization and downstream immune outputs using state-of-the-art methods including microbiome feedback assays, mutant and overexpression analyses, transcriptome and microbiota profiling. Goal is to identify the genetic basis enabling plants to benefit from beneficial soil microbiomes. Your profile We are looking for a PhD student with a strong interest in plant microbiomes. Applicants must have a strong background in plant-microbe interactions, genetics and molecular biology. You are highly self-motivated and committed, have a proactive mindset and a getting-things-done attitude. Applicants must be highly organized, detail-oriented and collaborative with good communication skills and have the ability to work well in an interdisciplinary and international environment. Fluency in spoken and written English is a prerequisite. We offer you We offer a dynamic research environment, state-of-the-art research facilities and enthusiastic colleagues from different nationalities and scientific backgrounds. You will be enrolled at the doctoral program of the Zurich-Basel Plant Science Center ( www.plantsciences.uzh.ch ). The position is for 4 years, and the salary will be according to the University of Basel standards. The position is available from now on; start upon agreement. Application / Contact Please submit your application including a motivation letter, a complete CV, University marks, possible publication record and contact details of two references to the recruiting portal (ideally as one pdf file). For further information please contact Prof. Dr. Klaus Schlaeppi ( klaus.schlaeppi@unibas.ch ). Review of applications will begin in December and continue until the position is filled. Apply www.unibas.ch