Geert Smant

Wageningen University & Research is offering a fully funded PhD position in the Laboratory of Nematology, focusing on the ecological, molecular, and genetic aspects of nematode-phage hitchhiking. The project aims to uncover how soil phages associate with nematodes, influence microbial dynamics, and impact soil and ecosystem health. The successful candidate will join an interdisciplinary team led by prof. Geert Smant, with daily supervision by dr. Lisa van Sluijs and additional guidance from dr. Mark Sterken and prof. Jan Kammenga. Research activities include isolating phages associated with Caenorhabditis elegans, determining molecular associations, and measuring changes in phage virulence and genetics due to hitchhiking. The position offers training in molecular microbiology, genomics, and host-virus-microbe interactions, within a collaborative and international research environment. Applicants should have a MSc in microbiology, molecular biology, or a related field, with interest and experience in sequencing and bioinformatics. Experience with phage virology or C. elegans is a plus. Strong English skills (C1 level) are required. The position is fully funded, with a competitive salary and excellent benefits, including support for international staff. Applications are open until 3 November 2025, with interviews starting from 13 November 2025. For more information, contact Lisa van Sluijs at [email protected]. Apply via the Wageningen University & Research vacancy page.