PhD: Biogeography of plant-associated fungi on the Galapagos islands - NIOO-KNAW - Wageningen

This PhD position at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) in Wageningen focuses on the biogeography of plant-associated fungi on the Galápagos Islands.

Background

The Galápagos Islands are a classic model system for studying adaptive radiation, where geographic isolation and environmental heterogeneity have driven the diversification of unique endemic species. Among these, Scalesia (Asteraceae), the iconic “giant daisy,” has evolved into multiple species adapted to different islands, elevations, and soil types. While plant diversification in the Galápagos is well documented, the diversity and biogeography of associated microbial communities remain largely unexplored. This system provides a unique opportunity to test island biogeography theory in plant-associated microbiomes. Emerging evidence suggests that plant-microbial associations can shape host plant establishment, fitness, and distribution. Fungal communities are key components of plant microbiomes, ranging from mutualists to pathogens. In particular, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, yeasts, and fungal pathogens colonizing roots and leaves play critical roles in nutrient acquisition, plant health, and stress resilience. Understanding this plant–microbe biogeography is therefore essential for both advancing ecological theory and supporting the conservation and restoration of unique island ecosystems.

What you will be doing

In this fully funded 4-year PhD position, you will investigate the biogeography of above- and belowground fungi associated with several Scalesia species. The project aims to develop an integrated view of the diversity and distribution of three components of the fungal microbiome: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, yeasts, and fungal pathogens colonizing roots and leaves. This system provides a unique opportunity to test whether the fungal plant microbiome follows classic biogeography theory, while characterizing its spatial distribution as well as taxonomic and functional diversity. In addition, you will assess how these fungal communities impact plant establishment, fitness, and (a)biotic stress resilience. To achieve these aims, you will employ molecular ecology in combination with microbiology techniques, plant bioassays, field sampling, and bioinformatic tools.

In this role you should also expect to:

• Closely collaborate with European and Ecuadorian students and partners.
• Communicate your research through presentations at national and international conferences and peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals.
• Supervise HBO and MSc students.
• Contribute to maintaining a friendly, inclusive, and collaborative working atmosphere within the research group.

What you will be contributing

You have an MSc degree in microbial ecology, plant-soil interactions, or a related field. You see challenges as opportunities to learn, remain resilient when faced with setbacks, and enjoy finding creative solutions in a dynamic interdisciplinary and international research environment. You also enjoy working in a team environment, taking ownership of your work while contributing to shared goals. You have good communication skills in English, both written and spoken.

What do we offer?

A fully funded 4-year PhD position (1.0 FTE) with a preferred starting date of October 1, 2026. The initial appointment will be made for one year and will be extended by an additional three years following a positive evaluation. You will be supervised by experienced researchers and work in close collaboration with other PhD candidates and postdocs within NIOO. You will become a member of the graduate school PE&RC through which you can follow courses on ecological subjects, research methods, statistical analyses, and transferable skills. In addition, departments and the Netherlands Institute of Ecology organise weekly seminars, science lunches, and journal clubs to stimulate scientific discussion and exchange ideas.

Your workplace

You will work at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) in Wageningen. This PhD position is embedded within two departments and the Galapagos Microbiome Initiative. You will work with Dr. Camille Delavaux at the Department of Terrestrial Ecology and Dr. Viviane Cordovez at the Department of Microbial Ecology at NIOO-KNAW.