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, temporaryProf. 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
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
- 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
- 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.What we offer
What we offer
Location
Further information
Questions about the job
Pascal Niklaus ProfessorQuestions about the application procedure
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