PhD in Seed Pathogens and Masting / PhD in Seed Pathogens and Masting

PhD in Seed Pathogens and Masting

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zürich, led by Professor Janneke Hille Ris Lambers, is seeking an enthusiastic PhD candidate to study how seed and seedling pathogens influence forest regeneration through their effects on and responses to mast seeding. The PhD student will collaborate with both the Plant Ecology Group and the Temporal Ecology Group at the University of British Columbia to contribute to this innovative project.

Mast seeding, characterized by boom and bust cycles of seed production, occurs when individuals within plant populations synchronize their reproductive efforts in response to climatic triggers. This evolutionary adaptation helps plants evade seed predators, as their populations decline during non-mast years when seed availability is limited. However, many studies on seed consumers have primarily focused on mammals, birds, and insects, overlooking the significant role that soil-borne pathogens may play in limiting plant recruitment. Our research aims to understand whether soil pathogens contribute to the evolution of masting strategies based on their spatio-temporal effects and whether they act as generalists or specialists.

Job Description

Key responsibilities will include:

• Conducting lab-based experiments followed by sequencing to identify seed-pathogen networks.
• Performing field observations and experiments to explore the relationship between seed production and seedling recruitment in mast and non-mast years.
• Utilizing statistical modeling to analyze collected data.
• Contributing to the annual collection of long-term data from Mt. Rainier National Park and/or Swiss LWF forests.
• Developing independent analyses or field experiments within the project's broader theme.
• Participating in group responsibilities, such as teaching, outreach, and lab activities within the department and university.

Profile

We seek candidates who possess the following attributes:

• Enthusiasm and interest in the scientific background of the project.
• Familiarity with laboratory skills essential for working with seed pathogens is desirable.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to fostering a collegial and inclusive workplace.
• Experience with statistical modeling and related software (e.g., R).
• Fieldwork experience and a valid driver's license.
• Willingness to travel and stay in the US for data collection for 1-2 months.
• Advanced proficiency in English (both oral and written).

Workplace

The Plant Ecology Group at ETH Zürich conducts research on a wide range of topics within plant community ecology. Areas of focus include the factors that limit forest regeneration (including masting dynamics), the influence of climate and biotic interactions, and the use of community science for ecological data collection. Our projects span forest and alpine field sites in the USA and Switzerland. We are dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusivity in our research and activities while conducting open and collaborative science.

We Offer

Funding is provided for four years of PhD studies, starting at 52,500 CHF per year (before taxes), according to the standards of the Department of Environmental Systems Sciences (USYS) at ETH Zürich. All members of the Plant Ecology Group engage in teaching and mentoring Bachelor's and Master's students.

ETH Zürich provides numerous opportunities for collaboration with outstanding research groups, including the adjacent University of Zürich, WSL (the Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research), and EAWAG (the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology). Zürich is a vibrant city offering a high quality of life and easy access to natural environments.

We Value Diversity

ETH Zürich is committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity, and nurture a working environment that respects the rights and dignity of all employees and students. For more information, please visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website.

Curious? So Are We.

We look forward to receiving your online application using the form below. Please ensure that the following documents are uploaded as separate PDFs:

• Resume: Include your educational background, scientific publications, presentations, and any relevant research or work experience (maximum 4 pages).
• MSc degree certificate: Include the title of your thesis.
• Transcript: Provide a list of courses taken and the corresponding grades.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zürich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. Known for its excellent education, groundbreaking research, and its commitment to addressing global challenges through innovation, ETH continues to inspire excellence among its diverse student body. With a vibrant atmosphere that promotes independent thinking, it provides an exceptional setting for academic and personal growth.