Fully Funded PhD Positions in Plant Epigenetics, Microbiome, and Stress Memory at University of Sheffield and Utrecht University

The University of Sheffield, in collaboration with Utrecht University, is recruiting fully funded PhD students for the ERC-funded 'PlantMemo' project. This research initiative investigates how plants remember and respond to biotic stress across molecular, microbial, and ecological scales. Three distinct PhD positions are available: (1) Epigenetic memory, focusing on how plants maintain and reset internal stress memory in their epigenome (UK students only); (2) Microbial memory, a joint project between Sheffield and Utrecht University, exploring how plants develop and transmit external stress memory via their microbiome (open to UK and EU students); and (3) Integrating internal and external memory, examining the interaction between epigenetic and microbial stress memory (UK students only). The project is ideal for candidates passionate about plant–microbe interactions, molecular epigenetics, or chemical soil ecology. All positions are fully funded by the European Research Council, covering tuition and providing a stipend. Applicants should have a strong background in biological sciences or related fields. For more information and to apply, visit the provided FindAPhD links. The application deadline is December 28, 2024.