University of Liege
8 months ago
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PhD Position in Soil Microbial Ecology and Forest Restoration at University of Liège University of Liège in Belgium
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Environmental Science
Funding
The position offers an initially 1-year PhD scholarship at University of Liège, extendable depending on further funding. The candidate will be invited to apply for additional funding from the 'Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique.' No specific stipend amount or tuition coverage is mentioned.
Deadline
Expired
Country
Belgium
University
University of Liege
Suggested scholarships
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About this position
The University of Liège (ULiège) in Belgium is offering a one-year, extendable PhD scholarship within the SHIFT inter-university project, in collaboration with UCLouvain and UNamur. The research focuses on the effects of forest conversion and restoration on soil microbial activity and diversity in ancient forests, specifically in the Wallonia region. The project aims to investigate how shifts in forest tree species composition affect soil organic carbon storage, microbial parameters, and ecosystem functioning, using a combination of fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and data modeling.
The successful candidate will join the InBioS research unit, working closely with Prof. Monique Carnol (ULiège), Prof. Quentin Ponette (UCLouvain), and Prof. Frederik De Laender (UNamur). The research will assess the effects of soil conditions and stand types (unconverted broadleaved ancient forests, converted coniferous ancient forests, and restored broadleaved forests) on soil microbial activity and molecular diversity, aiming to establish links to forest ecosystem functioning.
Applicants must have a master’s degree in biology, soil science, forest science, environmental science, or a related field, and be within the first four years of their research career. Strong backgrounds in forest ecology, soil science, and environmental science are required, along with experience or interest in bioinformatics, field and laboratory work, statistics (especially R), and clear English communication. Experience in molecular microbial ecology of soils is advantageous. The application should include a motivation letter, CV, diplomas and transcripts, references, and proof of English proficiency.
The position is initially funded for one year, with the possibility of extension through additional funding applications. The application deadline is February 12, 2026, with the expected start date in March 2026. The University of Liège offers a dynamic, multicultural research environment and encourages international collaboration and diversity.
Funding details
The position offers an initially 1-year PhD scholarship at University of Liège, extendable depending on further funding. The candidate will be invited to apply for additional funding from the 'Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique.' No specific stipend amount or tuition coverage is mentioned.
What's required
Applicants must hold an MS degree in biology, soil science, forest science, environmental science, or an equivalent field. At the date of recruitment, candidates must have obtained their master’s degree and be within the first four years of their research career, without having been awarded a doctoral degree. A strong background in forest ecology, soil science, environmental science, or related fields is required. Experience or strong interest in bioinformatic analyses of environmental data, field and laboratory work, statistics and data analysis (especially with R), teamwork and independent work, and clear communication in English (oral and written) are expected. Experience in molecular microbial ecology of soils is an advantage. Documentation of English language qualifications is required.
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Professors
Prof.
Belgium
Research Interests
Biochemistry
Soil Science
Biodiversity
Mediterranean Ecology
Plant Biochemistry
Prof.
Belgium
Research Interests
Soil Science
Environmental Science
Soil Microbiology
Rainforest Ecology
Biodiversity
Prof.
Belgium
Research Interests
Soil Science
Biology
Biodiversity
Environmental Science
Rainforest Ecology
Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the provider.