Study Subject: Microbial Ecology
Employer: Eawag, the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology,
Level: PhD
Scholarship Description: Both positions seek to understand the evolution and implications of cross-feeding, whereby one microorganism consumes metabolic intermediates produced by another microorganism. The objectives of the project are to better understand why cross-feeding sometimes occurs within microbial communities and how cross-feeding can promote diversity within these communities. Denitrification of nitrate to nitrogen gas is used as a model cross-feeding pathway, which has important implications for water quality, air quality, and global warming. The positions are expected to largely focus on experimental work, but may incorporate theoretical components as well.
The Molecular Microbial Ecology Group provides a unique opportunity to conduct research in microbial ecology. The group is located at Eawag, which has a broad range of expertise in environmental sciences, including ecology, microbiology, chemistry, and toxicology. The group is also part of the Department of Environmental Sciences at ETH and maintains strong interactions with various groups in experimental and theoretical biology.
Interested applicants should have a Masters degree or equivalent in biological or environmental sciences and have a strong background in experimental microbiology, microbial ecology, and / or microbial evolution. The ability to conduct research independently and to communicate in English is essential.
The anticipated start of this position is 1 January 2011. The initial duration of the position will be three years and is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. Women are explicitly encouraged to apply for this position with a view to increasing the proportion of women involved in science and research.
Scholarship Application Deadline: 31 October 2010
Details Scholarship Information and Application
http://www.eawag.ch/jobs/doktorate/exp_microbial_ecology
