University of Copenhagen Denmark 2022 PhD fellow in Plant-microbiome assembly

The PhD student will be part of Section of Microbiology, headed by Prof. Søren J. Sørensen. His research group focuses on social interactions in microbial populations in in-vivo systems such as soils, plants, animals and humans. The section houses state of the art culture-independent experimental infrastructure that enables us to examine how microbes interact at a scale that is relevant for such small organisms and study the roles of the individual species in these interactions. To do so we use techniques such as high throughput sequencing, flow cytometry, ultra-high resolution bioimaging, confocal microscopy and microbial reporter systems.

The group is a part of Department of Biology, Faculty of SCIENCE, University of Copenhagen. We are located in Copenhagen.

Novel strategies for eco-friendly and sustainable food production seek to explore and exploit the potential of the plant-microbiome to promote growth, acquire nutrients and induce resistance against pests and pathogens.  Yet, we lack a fundamental understanding of the ecological factors controlling the establishment of a beneficial plant-microbiome. Hence, we seek to test the ecological and evolutionary role of microbe-microbe interaction in the assembly and maturation of complex plant root microbiomes. The project is part of the research project “Underground Networking – Social interactions in the Plant Root Microbiome (UNICOM)”, which is financed by the Independent Research Fund, Denmark.

This project investigates the role of microbial interactions as key drivers for microbiome composition and activity, specifically focussing on interspecies cooperation/competition and the resulting priority effects. We work with the overarching hypothesis that microbial communities are composed of collaboromes, rather than independent species, that are characterized by being microscale focal points of interdependent bacteria showing essential microbe-microbe interactions. The emergent properties of these collaboromes present many beneficial consequences for plant growth and health.

The experimental design of this project goes beyond simple co-occurrence in bulk microbiome samples. Instead, it focusses on co-occurrence network analysis on microscale samples, which is complemented with detailed co-localization analyses to identify putative interactions. Finally, selected identified putative interactions are experimentally validated in simple microcosm experiments. 

• Table of Content
• About University of Copenhagen (UCPH)
• University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship
• Requirements for University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About University of Copenhagen (UCPH)

Driven by intellectual creativity and critical thinking since 1479, researchers and students at the University of Copenhagen have expanded horizons and contributed to moving the world forward. With its 5,000 researchers and 39,000 students, the University boasts an international research and study environment and is highly ranked on the leading ranking lists of the world's best universities. The University offers researchers and students the opportunity to develop their talent and launches ambitious interdisciplinary initiatives to support its strong academic communities. Through resear... continue reading

University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship

Requirements for University of Copenhagen PhD Scholarship Qualification

• Applicants should hold an MSc degree in Plant-Biology, Microbiology, Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, Biotechnology or similar with good results and good English skills. As criteria for the assessment of your qualification emphasis will also be laid on previous publications (if any) and relevant work experience. The MSc degree has to be awarded prior to the employment date.
• We are seeking a highly motivated and ambitious individual with good interpersonal and communication skills. Highly desired candidates will have a solid theoretical background of plant-microbiome interactions. As well as practical experience with techniques in microbiology and molecular biology. A strong interest in bioinformatics and/or bioimaging is also considered advantageous. 
• Experience with plants experimental work, including cultivation, maintenance, and site-specific sampling of microbial communities in the rhizosphere; rhizoplane, and endosphere.
• Experience with any or all of the following methodology: FISH detection in combination with CLSM microscope imaging and FACS analyses, molecular cloning, preparation of sequencing libraries (Illumina, PacBio, ONT), analysis of sequencing data.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Your application including all attachments must be in English and submitted electronically by clicking APPLY NOW below

Please include 

• Cover Letter, detailing your motivation and background for this project.
• Curriculum vitae
• Original diplomas for Bachelor of Science or Master of Science and transcript of records in the original language, including an authorized English translation if issued in another language than English or Danish. If not completed, a certified/signed copy of a recent transcript of records or a written statement from the institution or supervisor is accepted.
• Other information for consideration, e.g. scientific publications (if any)
• 1-3 reference letters (if any)

The University wishes our staff to reflect the diversity of society and thus welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background.