Matthias Erb

The University of Bern, Switzerland, is inviting applications for a postdoctoral position in Plant Volatile Interactions within the Research Section Biotic Interactions led by Professor Matthias Erb. The laboratory focuses on understanding how small molecules govern plant-environment interactions, using interdisciplinary approaches that combine mechanistic studies of small molecule biosynthesis and perception with ecological and biological effect quantification. The group has developed a unique mutant panel and innovative methods to measure volatile dynamics between plants, making this an exciting time to advance research in plant volatile perception and plant-plant interactions. This opportunity is ideal for candidates with a background in plant physiology, molecular biology, chemistry, chemical ecology, agriculture, agricultural engineering, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, or plant genetics. Applicants should have a PhD in a relevant field (planned or completed) and a strong record of scientific contributions, such as high-quality and original publications. The position requires an interest in interdisciplinary research spanning from genes to agroecosystems, excellent writing and communication skills, and a commitment to pursuing a long-term academic career. The successful candidate will join a dynamic research team and benefit from personalized mentoring aimed at fostering an independent scientific career. The project will be tailored to the applicant's skills and needs to maximize training, scientific, and personal development. The position offers attractive remuneration according to Swiss salary rates. The earliest starting date is 1 September 2026, and the position will remain open until filled. To apply, candidates should upload a single PDF (maximum 10 MB) containing their CV, a brief letter of motivation explaining their interest in the position, their three most noteworthy achievements, and contact details of two academic references via the application website. For more information about the research group and ongoing projects, visit the Biotic Interactions group page . Keywords: plant volatile interactions, chemical ecology, molecular biology, plant physiology, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, plant genetics, agriculture.

University of Bern, Switzerland, is recruiting a Post Doc in Climate-Resilient Companion Cropping within the Research Section Biotic Interactions (Institute of Plant Sciences) and the Oeschger Centre for Climate Change Research (OCCR). This 100% postdoctoral position sits at the intersection of chemical ecology , community ecology , soil science , crop physiology , and agroecology . The project asks how plant-plant interactions can help crops withstand drought and heat, with an initial focus on maize and companion species. The successful candidate will coordinate experimental design and establish greenhouse, field, and mesocosm experiments to test crop mixtures under ambient conditions and simulated climate extremes. Research tasks include studying chemically mediated plant interactions such as plant-plant signalling, plant volatiles, root exudates, and specialized metabolites; assessing crop performance, pest resistance, water use, associated biodiversity, soil carbon, and soil biotic interactions; organizing an interdisciplinary workshop; contributing to a conceptual synthesis; leading scientific publications; and helping supervise MSc research. The role involves collaboration with OCCR colleagues and partners at Agroscope and FiBL. Eligibility highlights: a completed PhD by the start date in chemical ecology, plant biology, plant ecology, agroecology, or a related field; a strong publication record; demonstrated expertise in chemical ecology; strong quantitative and experimental skills; excellent scientific writing and communication in English; and the ability to work independently and collaboratively across disciplines. Funding and terms: 100% postdoctoral appointment for two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension, and salary according to University of Bern regulations. How to apply: Upload a single PDF containing your CV, a brief motivation letter, your three most noteworthy achievements, and contact details of two academic references. The position is open until filled. Questions can be sent to [email protected] .

Postdoc in Digital Plant Phenotyping at the University of Bern, Switzerland. The Institute of Plant Sciences, Research Section Biotic Interactions, is recruiting for an 80–100% postdoctoral position in the Plant 3D Reconstruction project. The project combines plant science , computational biology , computer vision , chemical ecology , and statistics . You will work with the Biotic Interactions Group (Prof. Matthias Erb) and the Computer Vision Group (Prof. Paolo Favaro) to grow plants, collect images, measure plant traits, and develop/test models that estimate traits from 3D plant models generated from smartphone videos. The research also integrates volatile dynamics to study links between plant architecture and chemical signalling. This is a hands-on and interdisciplinary postdoc with an equal split between plant experiments and computational analysis. The role includes access to plant growth facilities, support from specialists in computer vision and data science, mentoring, and opportunities to contribute to scientific publications and lead papers. Eligibility highlights: a completed PhD in plant sciences, biology, or a related field by the start date; experience with controlled plant experiments and trait measurements; strong experimental design, data management, and statistical analysis skills; interest in computational methods and 3D modelling; and clear English communication. How to apply: submit one PDF containing your CV, a short motivation letter, your three main achievements, and contact details for two academic references. In the letter, describe your plant science experience and your interest in computational biology and this project. The application file must be under 10 MB. Deadline: open until filled. Start date by agreement. Appointment ends on 31 December 2028.