Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands, calls for applications for a post-doc position on Modelling Root-Shoot Signals and Tip Burn.
The school is hiring a postdoc, who will use a Functional-Structural Plant (FSP) modelling approach to gain a fundamental understanding of two plant physiological phenomena relevant in the context of vertical farming:(i) root-shoot signaling and (ii) tip-burn.
(i) Plants respond to the mechanical resistance perceived by roots resulting in changes in morphology and growth. There are different hypotheses for the mechanisms behind this “long-distance signaling”. Next to hormonal and electrical mechanisms, a popular hypothesis revolves around hydraulic pulses to address this hypothesis, they will assess the dose-response relation between root penetration resistance and leaf elongation rates. Candidates will develop a functional structural plant (FSP) model, using newly developed and existing modelling concepts, to narrow down candidate mechanisms for root-borne long-distance signaling, i.e. hormonal, electrical or hydraulic.
(ii) Tip burn, brown necrotic edges of the leaves, is a widespread problem in the production of leafy vegetables. Tip burn is generally considered a consequence of local calcium (Ca) deficiency. Calcium distribution in the plant is related to transpiration distribution in the plant. Functional-Structural Plant (FSP) modelling will be employed combining the representation of three-dimensional (3D) plant structure with spatially resolved photosynthesis, transpiration, and Ca distribution.
Location: Wageningen
Duration: A full-time employment for 3 years.
Salary
The Post-doc Modelling Root-Shoot Signals and Tip Burn in the Netherlands includes;
- a competitive salary from a minimum of € 2.790,- to a maximum of € 4.402,
- the option to accrue additional compensation/holiday hours by working more, up to 40 hours per week;
- sabbatical leave, study leave, and partially paid parental leave;
- working hours that can be discussed and arranged so that they allow for the best possible work-life balance;
- a fixed December bonus of 8.3%;
- excellent pension scheme.
Job Requirements
The Position on Modelling Root-Shoot Signals and Tip Burn seeks result-driven team players with creative ideas, excellent communication skills as well as good proficiency in English (both oral and written). This position requires excellent English language proficiency. Applicants must:
- Have a PhD in plant sciences and have published some high-quality papers in peer-reviewed journals.
- Enjoy supervising BSc, MSc, and PhD students and have excellent collaboration skills.
- Be capable to operate in an international and multi-disciplinary environment.
- Have proven knowledge of plant physiological processes and how to create a mathematical description thereof.
- Can develop plant models using a popular programming langue such as Java (XL), Javascript, Python, Matlab, R, or C++.
Application Process
Interested applicants for the Post-doc Modelling Root-Shoot Signals and Tip Burn are to send their applications including the following documents:
- a curriculum vitae
- a cover letter briefly describing their qualifications and motivation for this position.
- a list of BSc and MSc courses and grades.
To apply for the Post-doc Modelling Root-Shoot Signals and Tip Burn in the Netherlands, click here.
Application Deadline: February 7, 2022.
For more information for on Post-doc Modelling Root-Shoot Signals and Tip Burn in the Netherlands, visit the official site.
