PhD in Plant Synthetic Biology and Optogenetics at Institute for Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology (IBMCP – CSIC/UPV)

A PhD position is available at the Institute for Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology (IBMCP – CSIC/UPV) in Spain, as part of the MSCA-COFUND SYNBIO-CSIC programme. The research focuses on advancing optogenetic control tools for plant biotechnology, specifically through the design of next-generation plant virus-derived vectors with replication, movement, and regulatory capabilities. The project aims to achieve full light-controlled activation and deactivation of these vectors and to integrate dynamic modeling and AI-based design of light-responsive genetic parts, including transcription factors, promoters, terminators, and regulatory RNAs. The project is co-supervised by Diego Orzáez (Plant Genomics and Biotechnology Lab) and José-Antonio Daròs (Plant Virus Biotechnology Lab). The expected outcome is a synthetic biology toolkit for light-responsive viral vectors capable of reprogramming plant biosynthetic pathways, contributing to sustainable plant-based biomanufacturing. This opportunity is ideal for candidates interested in plant synthetic biology, optogenetics, and advanced genetic engineering. Applicants should have a strong background in plant molecular biology, biotechnology, synthetic biology, or related fields. Experience with genetic engineering, molecular cloning, or optogenetics is highly desirable. Familiarity with dynamic modeling and AI-based design is a plus. The position is funded under the MSCA-COFUND SYNBIO-CSIC programme, which typically offers competitive funding, though specific details are not provided in the announcement. For more information and to apply, visit the project description link provided. This is an excellent opportunity to join a leading research institute in Spain and contribute to innovative plant biotechnology research.