We are looking for a passionate colleague with a drive to understand the hidden lives of soil-borne fungal plant pathogens. To apply to this PhD position, you need:

• A completed (or nearly completed) Master’s degree in biology or a related discipline.
• A proven affinity with computational modelling.
• An interest in the ecology and evolution of microbial ecosystems.
• Proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

It is considered a plus if you have:

• A background in fungal biology, fungal ecology, and/or fungal genome evolution.
• Experience with analytical (mathematical) models.

Note: women, ethnic minorities, and people from any other minority group are especially encouraged to apply. Please do not feel demotivated when you feel like you do not meet all the listed criteria. When in doubt, please reach out to us.

• a position for 18 months, with an extension to a total of four years upon successful assessment in the first 18 months;
• a gross monthly salary starting at € 3,059 in the first year and increasing annually up to €3,881 in the fourth year, based on full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

As Utrecht University, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.

Knowledge security screening can be part of the selection procedures of academic staff. We do this, among other things, to prevent the unwanted transfer of sensitive knowledge and technology.

If you are enthusiastic about this position, just apply via the "Apply now" button! Please enclose:

• your letter of motivation (max 1 A4);
• your Curriculum vitae;
• the names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of at least one reference.

If this specific opportunity isn’t for you, but you know someone else who may be interested, please forward this vacancy to them.

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#FundamentalConnection

For more information, please contact Dr. Bram van Dijk at b.vandijk@uu.nl.

Do you have a question about the application procedure? Please send an email to science.recruitment@uu.nl.

Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.