PhD position: Biogeography of plant-associated fungi on the Galápagos islands

Background

PhD position: Biogeography of plant-associated fungi on the Galápagos islands

This project will uncover the hidden diversity of fungi and the plant-fungal interactions shaping the ecology and evolution of Scalesia species in the Galápagos archipelago. 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. While plant diversification in the Galápagos is well documented, the diversity and biogeography of associated microbial communities remain largely unexplored. You will investigate the biogeography of above- and belowground fungi within Scalesia species and how fungi can contribute to Scalesia success. Your project will contribute to understanding plant–microbe biogeography, advancing ecological theory and supporting the restoration of unique island ecosystems.

What you will be doing

As PhD candidate, you will investigate the diversity, composition, and biogeographic patterns of fungi associated with several Scalesia species across three components of the fungal microbiome: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), yeasts, and fungal pathogens in soils, roots and leaves. You will combine molecular and microbiology work, bioinformatics, and statistical analyses with field sampling and greenhouse experiments, both at NIOO-KNAW and abroad. The Scalesia system and these approaches will provide a unique opportunity to answer two overarching questions: (1) What determines the biogeography of plant-associated fungi? How do the taxonomic and functional diversity as well as the biogeographic patterns vary across plant hosts, islands, and in relation to the mainland? (2) Can these fungal communities help promote dominance, competitive ability, and resilience of Scalesia species during seed germination and seedling growth?

What you will be contributing

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our international team investigating plant-microbiome biogeography in the Galápagos. Ideal candidates will have:

• An MSc degree in microbial ecology, plant-soil-microbe interactions, or related field.
• Proven experience with both experimental and computational approaches to study plant-microbe interactions.
• A background and passion for mycology and ecosystem ecology, with a desire to combine laboratory, computational and greenhouse/field work.
• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, with an ability to contribute ideas within a team.
• A collaborative, curious, and creative mindset.
• Ability and willingness to collaborate closely with European and Ecuadorian students and partners.
• Excellent communication skills in English, and proficiency or motivation to learn Spanish.

What do we offer?

A fully funded 4-year PhD position (1.0 FTE) with a preferred starting date of January 1, 2027. The initial appointment will be made for one year and will be extended 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 the 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 transferrable skills. In addition, departments and the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) 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 NIOO departments (Terrestrial Ecology and Microbial Ecology) and the Galapagos Microbiome Initiative at the University of San Francisco de Quito (USFQ). The PhD will work with Dr. Camille Delavaux at the Department of Terrestrial Ecology, Dr. Viviane Cordovez and Prof. Jos Raaijmakers at the Department of Microbial Ecology, as well as with colleagues at the USFQ.

Scientific/Non-scientific: Academic staff.

• Location: Wageningen.
• Minimum hours per week: 38.
• Maximum hours per week: 38.
• Contract duration: 4 years.

Terms of employment and benefits

• A salary of 3.204 to 4.051 gross per month based on a full-time position (salary scale P, Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities/KNAW), depending on your qualifications and experience.
• 29 vacation days per year based on a full-time position, with the option to increase this to 41 days by working two extra hours per week.
• An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% year-end bonus in addition to your salary.
• Fully covered public transport costs for your commute through an NS Business Card.
• A good pension scheme through ABP, with the KNAW covering approximately two thirds of the pension contribution.
• The option to tailor part of your employment conditions through the Flexible Benefits Model (Keuzemodel Arbeidsvoorwaarden), for example by buying or selling leave days or receiving a contribution towards a bicycle or sports subscription.
• Access to training, coaching, and career guidance through our Centre for Career and Development.

Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct can be part of the employment procedure.