The Polytechnic University of Cartagena (UPCT) is offering a prestigious MSCA-COFUND postdoctoral opportunity within the AgrifoodTECH programme, focusing on sustainable growing media in horticulture. This call seeks innovative research proposals that address the sustainability, environmental performance, and functional roles of growing media in horticultural systems, with a particular emphasis on peat alternatives and their adoption in soilless cultivation. The research aims to advance understanding of the properties, dynamics, and implications of alternative substrates, investigate environmental, agronomic, and socioeconomic factors, and explore management approaches that influence the performance of these media in horticultural production.

Key research topics include: advancing knowledge of peat alternatives for soilless horticulture, evaluating the environmental and agronomic impacts of sustainable growing media, and understanding how management practices affect substrate-based crop systems. The context for this research is the urgent need to transition away from peat due to its environmental drawbacks, such as slow renewability and greenhouse gas emissions, and to identify renewable, locally available materials that support sustainable horticultural production.

The AgrifoodTECH programme, funded by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (Grant Agreement 101179088), is designed to train 16 postdoctoral researchers in Agriculture 4.0 and agri-food technology, equipping them with interdisciplinary skills to drive innovation in the sector. The programme is internationally recognized and offers a stimulating research environment in the Region of Murcia, Spain, with collaborations across 14 partner organizations. The research conducted under this call is expected to contribute to new frameworks for substrate management, provide insights into the sustainability implications of peat-free growing media, and support the development of sustainable agri-food systems.

Applicants should have a PhD in agronomy, horticulture, or a closely related field, and experience in soilless cultivation, fertigation, data analysis, or sustainability aspects of horticultural systems is advantageous. The position is fully funded, offering a competitive salary and research support, though specific stipend details are not provided. Interested candidates should review the call details and submit a research proposal aligned with the outlined topics. For more information, visit the provided links or contact the programme office at [email protected].