About PSB and the Goormachtig/Rhizosphere lab

The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology (PSB) is a world-leading plant science institute located at the heart of a renowned Plant Biotech campus in the wonderful city of Ghent, Belgium. Its mission is to integrate genetics, bio-computing and omics approaches to unravel plant biological processes and to translate this knowledge into societal benefits. Please visit us at www.psb.ugent.be for more information.
The Goormachtig/Rhizosphere lab performs research in the area of beneficial plant-microbe interactions. The lab has a long-lasting experience in the molecular communication between rhizobia bacteria and legume plants, a research topic in which this project is embedded. For more information: https://www.goormachtiglab.be/

Job Description

We are looking for a molecular plant-microbe scientist at post-doc level to join our team from 1.01.2025 onward for a period of maximum 4 years. The position is in the frame of a research grant (fundamental science for application, SBO, FWO, Flanders) entitled: MATCHMAKING: Unveiling Optimal Soybean-Rhizobia Matches in North-western European Environments
The project is situated within the European effort to introduce soybean as a protein crop for sustainable agriculture in Northwestern Europe. In a collaborative effort with Ghent University and ILVO, we will pinpoint optimal soybean-rhizobia combinations for efficient nitrogen fixation when applied at northern latitudes, gain profound insights into the genetic underpinnings of these interactions, and uncover plant growth promoting rhizobacteria that enhance the symbiotic relationship. Our project paves the way for sustainable high-protein soybean production in North-western Europe, with the potential to benefit high-latitude regions worldwide.
To coordinate this project and be the spokes-person for collaboration with the partners and Industry, we are hiring a highly motivated molecular plant-microbe scientist (‘Degree in Biochemistry/Biotechnology, Biology, Bioscience Engineering or similar)’. Together with two Ph D students, the scientist will evenly be involved in the fundamental research related to the molecular understanding of the compatibility between soybean genotypes and microbial strains.

Profile

• A junior post-doc in Life Sciences or Bioscience-engineering
• Hands-on experience in molecular plant-microbe interactions
• You love to take initiative and are a team player
• You have a strong perseverance and critical mindset
• Organization and communication are your talents.

We offer

• An intellectually stimulating, international and multi-disciplinary research environment
• Access to state-of-the-art infrastructure
• High-quality training to develop hard and soft skills
• Opportunities to participate in (inter)national workshops and scientific conferences
• A competitive salary including benefits

The VIB-UGent Center for Plant Systems Biology is a world-leading science institution on the Techlane Campus in Ghent, Belgium. Ghent University is among the top 100 global universities according to several international rankings.
Startdate: 1/01/2025

How to apply?

Motivated candidates are asked to apply online via the VIB application tool.