PhD Position in Agroecology for Field-Crop Production at Agroscope Agroscope in Switzerland

Agroscope is advertising a fully funded PhD position in Agroecology for Field-Crop Production in Nyon, Switzerland. The project focuses on sustainable agriculture and field-crop systems, with strong links to soil health, plant ecology, soil microbiome, and microbial ecology.

The doctoral research examines how reducing soil tillage and herbicide use can improve the sustainability of crop production while maintaining productivity and environmental performance. It is embedded in a long-term field experiment and will involve agronomic, ecological, and soil-health assessments.

Research themes include agroecology, soil organic carbon dynamics, weed diversity and functional ecology, reduced tillage systems, herbicide reduction strategies, and broader ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes. The role includes field sampling, laboratory analyses, data interpretation, and publication/presentation of results.

Eligibility highlights: applicants should hold a Master’s degree in Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Biology, or a related field. Interest in agroecology, soil science, sustainable agriculture, and plant ecology is important. Experience with data analysis and laboratory techniques is an advantage, along with the ability to work independently and in an international multidisciplinary team. English is required, and knowledge of Swiss national languages is a plus.

The position starts on 01 October 2026 and runs until 30 September 2030. The post is at Agroscope, the Swiss Confederation’s center of excellence for agricultural research.