Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies

Two PhD Positions at the University of Zurich, Switzerland: Predicting and Understanding the Benefits of Wheat Variety Mixtures 80 %

Start of employment 01.09.2025, temporary

Prof. Pascal Niklaus from the Department of Evoutionary Biology and Environmental Studies is inviting applications for two PhD positions in the PrediMix research consortium, focused on uncovering and leveraging the mechanisms behind the benefits of growing wheat in variety mixtures. Join us in exploring how biodiversity can enhance agricultural resilience and productivity!
Background
Modern agriculture must meet growing productivity demands while improving sustainability in the face of climate change and rising pest pressures. One promising strategy is growing wheat variety mixtures, which can improve yield stability, reduce disease incidence, and enhance resource use efficiency. However, a major hurdle remains: we currently lack the ability to predict which combinations of varieties will perform best. The PrediMix project unites five interdisciplinary research teams spanning plant breeding, genetics, ecology, phenotyping, and artificial intelligence to address this challenge.

Your responsibilities

PhD Projects
1. Predictive Modelling of Mixture Performance
This project will leverage existing datasets and new experimental data to predict mixture performance based on varietal traits. You will apply statistical modeling and machine learning techniques, requiring comfort with large datasets. Prior experience with data analysis is a plus, but training will be provided.
2. Soil Microbiome and Variety Interactions
This project explores how soil microbial communities mediate interactions among wheat varieties and affect mixture outcomes. It involves laboratory work and molecular techniques (e.g., DNA-based microbiome analyses). Experience with DNA-based molecular techniques and lab work is essential.­

Further Information

Prof. Dr. Pascal Niklaus
PhD Program in Ecology at the University of Zurich
PrediMix Project Partners

Your profile

Requirements
  • Master's degree (or equivalent) in biology, ecology, microbiology, or a related field
  • Strong written and oral communication skills in English
  • Experience with statistical analysis (R or similar software)
  • Interest in interdisciplinary and collaborative research
Position Details
  • Start date: between September 1 and November 1, 2025 (negotiable)
  • Duration: 3.5 years, with potential for extension
  • Location: Dept. of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich
  • Supervision: Prof. Dr. Pascal Niklaus, and members of the PrediMix consortium
  • Salary: ~50,000 CHF/year (Swiss National Science Foundation standard)
  • Enrollment: PhD Program in Ecology, Life Science Zurich Graduate School

Information on your application

Please apply through the University's job portal, providing the following information: (1) letter of motivation, (2) curriculum vitae (CV), (3) transcripts of academic records, and (4) contact information for references. Kindly indicate which of the two PhD positions you are applying for (or both, if applicable). We will evaluate applications beginning July 20 until the position is filled.

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Further information

Questions about the job

Pascal Niklaus Professor
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Questions about the application procedure

Isabel Schoechli HR administrator 044 635 52 04
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Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer!
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Please apply via our job portal www.jobs.uzh.ch.

Working at UZH

The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer! More
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