PhD student i biology

Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Department of Plant Biology and Forest Genetics in Ultuna 1 PhD student in the research education subject: Biology Microbial interactions in the N2-fixing legume lupin The narrow-leafed lupin could become an alternative to available species of grain legumes for production of protein-rich fodder in Swedish agriculture. Lupin could also provide an additional desired choice among crop species that are expected to change in composition due to climate change. N2-fixing plants depend strongly on interactions with microbes and when introducing new plant species, it is essential to explore the occurrence and potential benefits of its symbiotic microbes. We are therefore looking for a PhD student in a project concerning microbial ecology of N2-fixing lupines for Swedish agriculture. The occurrence and roles of root nodule-inducing N2-fixing rhizobia compatible with lupin, as well as functional diversity of these bacteria and roles of other microbes interacting with lupin will be investigated. The project is carried out in collaboration between researchers at the Department of Plant Biology and Forest Genetics, the Department of Microbiology and the Department of Crop Production Ecology, SLU, Uppsala. We have experience in physiology of N2-fixing plants, plant-microbe interactions, microbial community studies and plant production. You will be working in a stimulating international environment. The Department of Plant Biology and Forest Genetics is one of six departments making up the new cluster Uppsala BioCenter at SLU - Ultuna (http://bioc.slu.se). The department contributes to internationally recognised basic and applied science in the field of plant biology. For more information about the department visit our web page; www.vbsg.slu.se. The employment as a PhD student is for 4 years of postgraduate studies. Qualifications Higher university degree in biology/microbiology/ molecular biology/agronomy or equivalent (Degree of Master or Master of Science) with emphasis on microbial ecology, plant physiology, plant-microbe interactions or corresponding topics. Documented experience in lab work in molecular biology and microbiology is highly valued. Experience in gene cloning, primer design, microbial community analysis, microbe tagging (gfp) and plant cultivation and evaluation is preferred. Forms for funding or employment Scholarship 1 year + Employment as PhD student 3 years SLU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. A person has basic eligibility for third level education if he or she has taken a second level qualification or has completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, including at least 60 higher education credits at second level. Those who met the requirements for general eligibility before July 1st, 2007, i.e. had completed a programme of higher education for at least 180 Higher education credits or the equivalent, will continue to do so until the end of 2015." Selection among applicants meeting the requirements is made with reference to written application including curriculum vitae, copies of degrees and transcripts of academic records, one copy of the dissertation for masters or undergraduate degree, a list of at least two references familiar with the applicant's qualifications, certified knowledge of the English language and an interview. Read more about the PhD education in the Handbook for postgraduate students For a complete avdt: personal.slu.se/job