The Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) is offering a fully-funded PhD position focused on enhancing soil biodiversity for sustainable tree cultivation. This opportunity is part of the SolidTree project, which addresses the environmental challenges posed by the rapid increase in road-side tree cultivation, such as negative impacts on surface water quality and the environment. The project aims to develop actionable management practices and a decision support tool to promote soil biodiversity, thereby supporting sustainable tree growth and reducing the need for pesticides and artificial fertilizers.

The successful candidate will join a transdisciplinary consortium involving tree growers, social scientists, data scientists, and engineers. The research will involve field sampling at tree growers, controlled experiments, laboratory work (including chemical and biological soil parameter measurements), and advanced data analysis to assess the impact of management practices on soil community composition and functioning. Collaboration with HAS Green Academy and Utrecht University is integral to the project, especially for fieldwork and bioinformatics.

The position is based in the Department of Terrestrial Ecology at NIOO-KNAW, a dynamic and collaborative environment with state-of-the-art research facilities. The department focuses on understanding, predicting, and mitigating the effects of climate change, biodiversity loss, and land use change in terrestrial ecosystems, with research spanning plant-microbe-invertebrate interactions and ecosystem processes. The candidate will also become a member of the graduate school PE&RC, gaining access to specialized courses and professional development opportunities.

Applicants should hold an MSc in soil (microbial) ecology, plant-soil interactions, or a related field, and be fluent in English with a driver's license B. Experience in field sampling, greenhouse experiments, laboratory chemical/molecular work, or statistical analysis and bioinformatics is advantageous. Strong communication skills and an affinity for writing and presenting research are essential. Dutch language skills are a plus.

The position offers a competitive salary (€3,059–€3,881 gross per month, full-time), with additional benefits including vacation and year-end bonuses, travel and home working allowances, and pension accrual. The appointment is for four years (extendable to five years at 0.8 FTE), with an initial one-year contract and extension upon positive evaluation. The preferred start date is May 2026. The application deadline is 1 March 2026, with interviews scheduled for 16 or 17 March. Applications must include a cover letter, CV, and contact details for two referees. For more information, contact Dr. Ciska Veen ([email protected]) or Dr. Basten Snoek ([email protected]).