Background
The Galápagos Islands are a classic model system for studying adaptive radiation, where geographic isolation and environmental heterogeneity have driven the diversification of unique endemic species. Among these, Scalesia (Asteraceae), the iconic “giant daisy,” has evolved into multiple species adapted to different islands, elevations, and soil types. While plant diversification in the Galápagos is well documented, the diversity and biogeography of associated microbial communities remain largely unexplored. This system provides a unique opportunity to test island biogeography theory (IBT) in plant-associated microbiomes. Emerging evidence suggests that plant-microbial associations can shape host plant establishment, fitness, and distribution. Fungal communities are key components of plant microbiomes, ranging from mutualists to pathogens. In particular, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), yeasts, and fungal pathogens colonizing roots and leaves play critical roles in nutrient acquisition, plant health, and stress resilience. Understanding this plant–microbe biogeography is therefore essential for both advancing ecological theory and supporting the conservation and restoration of unique island ecosystems.
What you will be doing
In this project, you will investigate the biogeography of above- and belowground fungi associated with several Scalesia species. We aim to develop an integrated view of diversity and distribution of three components of the fungal microbiome: arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), yeasts, and fungal pathogens colonizing roots and leaves. This system will provide a unique opportunity to test if the fungal plant microbiome follows classic biogeography theory, while characterizing its’ spatial distribution as well as taxonomic and functional diversity. In addition, we will assess how these fungal communities impact plant establishment, fitness, and (a)biotic stress resilience. To achieve these aims, you will employ molecular ecology in combination with microbiology techniques, plant bioassays, field sampling, and bioinformatic tools.
In this role you should also expect to:
- Closely collaborate with European and Ecuadorian students and partners.
- Communicate your research through presentations at national and international conferences and peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals.
- Supervise HBO and MSc students.
- Contribute to maintaining a friendly, inclusive, and collaborative working atmosphere within the research group.
What you will be contributing
You have an MSc degree in microbial ecology, plant-soil interactions, or related field. You see challenges as opportunities to learn, remain resilient when faced with setbacks, and enjoy finding creative solutions in a dynamic interdisciplinary and international research environment. You also enjoy working in a team environment, taking ownership of your work while contributing to shared goals. You have good communication skills in English, both written and spoken.
What do we offer?
A fully funded 4-year PhD position (1.0 FTE) with a preferred starting date of October 1, 2026. The initial appointment will be made for one year and will be extended an additional three years following a positive evaluation. You will be supervised by experienced researchers and work in close collaboration with other PhD candidates and postdocs within the NIOO. You will become a member of the graduate school PE&RC (https://www.pe-rc.nl/) through which you can follow courses on ecological subjects, research methods, statistical analyses, and transferrable skills. In addition, departments and the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) organise weekly seminars, science lunches, and journal clubs to stimulate scientific discussion and exchange ideas.
Your workplace
You will work at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) in Wageningen. This PhD position is embedded within two departments and the Galapagos Microbiome Initiative. The PhD will work with Dr. Camille Delavaux at the Department of Terrestrial Ecology and Dr. Viviane Cordovez at the Department of Microbial Ecology at NIOO-KNAW.
More information
For more information, do not hesitate to contact: Dr. Camille Delavaux, ([email protected]) and Dr. Viviane Cordovez, ([email protected]). More information about the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW), the Department of Terrestrial Ecology, and the Department of Microbial Ecology can be found at the website: http://www.nioo.knaw.nl.
Application procedure
For the application, please include a cover letter summarizing motivation and experience, a CV, and contact details of two professional referees (name, address, telephone and email). Deadline for application is June 26, 2026. Interviews will be held in person or online, depending on the location of the candidate, and are planned for late July.
About NIOO
The Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO) is a national research institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). At NIOO we perform ecological research on biodiversity, climate change and sustainable use of land and water. We stimulate ecological research in the Netherlands and share our ecological knowledge with society. Everyone in our organisation is passionate about contributing to a sustainable world from their own area of expertise.
Terms of employment
Depending on education and experience the minimum salary is €3.059,- and the maximum salary is €3.881,- gross per month for a full-time appointment (scale P cao Nederlandse Universiteiten/KNAW). This is exclusive of 8% vacation allowance, 8.3% year-end bonus, travel allowance, internet allowance, home working allowance and pension accrual with ABP.
The KNAW offers its staff an excellent package of secondary benefits. A package that meets the different needs of employees depending on their stage of life, lifestyle or career ambitions. For example, by working an extra two hours a week, it is possible to increase the number of days off from 29 to 41 days a year (with full-time employment).
For a complete overview of the terms of employment, please refer to the web page: werken bij de KNAW.
Applying for a Certificate of Good Conduct can be part of the employment procedure.
Diversity & Inclusion
The KNAW considers a working environment in which everyone feels welcome and appreciated of great importance. A working environment in which attention is paid to individual quality and where development opportunities are paramount. Together we strive for an inclusive culture in which we embrace differences. We would therefore like to invite candidates who want to contribute to this through their background and experience. In the event of equal suitability, preference will be given to the candidate who thus enhances diversity within the Academy.
We will not respond to any supplier enquiries based on this job advertisement.
