PhD Positions in Plant Stress Physiology, Micromobility Systems, and Generative AI

Multiple fully funded PhD positions are available across leading international institutions in the fields of plant stress physiology, micromobility systems, and generative AI. The REAP2SOW programme at Wageningen University & Research (Netherlands) offers two PhD positions focused on plant stress physiology, nitrogen acquisition, and photosynthesis in novel protein crops such as quinoa, white lupin, and tuberous pea. Research will address how abiotic stresses like temperature and water availability affect crop resilience, with advanced methods including transcriptomics, root imaging, isotope tracing, and bioinformatics. The programme is a national collaboration with Utrecht University, Leiden University, University of Twente, and University of Groningen, aiming to support sustainable food systems and environmental security. Supervision is provided by a team of experts including Prof. Jochem Evers, Dr. Steven Driever, Prof. Viola Willemsen, Dr. Wouter Kohlen, Dr. Martijn van Zanten, and Dr. Kaisa Kajala. At the University of Queensland (Australia), a PhD position is open for data-driven, agent-based modelling of multimodal micromobility systems, focusing on the integration of e-bikes and e-scooters into urban transport. The project involves developing AI-powered models to simulate user behaviour and safety, with access to extensive real-world datasets and industry collaboration. Supervision is by Associate Professor Mehmet Yildirimoglu and Professor Zuduo Zheng. The University of Manitoba (Canada) offers a PhD position in Generative AI within the CORE AI Lab, requiring strong programming, machine learning, and mathematics/statistics skills. Applicants should send their CV, motivation letter, and transcripts to Dr. Sadaf Salehkalaibar. All positions offer competitive funding: Wageningen University & Research provides a salary starting at €3,059/month with benefits, the University of Queensland offers a $37,500/year stipend plus tuition, and the University of Manitoba position details are available upon inquiry. Applicants should have a relevant MSc degree, strong research skills, and English proficiency. Deadlines are February 23, 2026 (Wageningen), February 28, 2026 (Queensland), and rolling for Manitoba. For more information, contact the listed supervisors or visit the provided links.