PhD Position in Plant Science – Focus on Cell Adhesion
Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC), Umeå University, Sweden
🗓️ Application Deadline: 26 June 2025
🧪 Start Date: Fall 2025 (or by agreement)
The Department of Plant Physiology at Umeå University, part of the internationally renowned Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC), invites applications for a fully funded PhD position in plant cell-cell adhesion, in the group of Dr. Stéphane Verger.
🔬 About the Project
Cell-cell adhesion is a cornerstone of multicellular life, but its mechanisms in plants remain poorly understood. This project explores how mechanical forces, hormonal signaling (auxin & brassinosteroids), and cell wall chemistry interact to maintain adhesion during rapid plant growth. You’ll use a unique combination of:
- Confocal and live-cell microscopy
- Genetics and molecular biology
- Biomechanics and micro-manipulation
- Computational biology and modeling
🌟 Why Join Us?
- Be part of a multidisciplinary team at the intersection of plant biology, biophysics, and computational science
- Access cutting-edge facilities and collaborative networks
- Contribute to groundbreaking research on plant tissue mechanics and development
- Benefit from a vibrant international research environment at one of Europe’s top plant science institutes
👩🔬 Your Background
We’re looking for candidates with:
✅ A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in plant biology, molecular biology, biophysics, or a related field
✅ Solid knowledge of cell and molecular biology
✅ Hands-on experience with microscopy (confocal preferred)
✅ Excellent written and spoken English
💡 Desirable (but not required):
- Image processing, modeling, or bioinformatics skills
- Experience with Arabidopsis, phytohormone signaling, or plant cell wall biology
- Familiarity with mechanobiology or biostatistics
We value enthusiasm, initiative, and the ability to both collaborate and work independently.
📘 Eligibility Requirements
- A completed degree equivalent to 240 ECTS (of which at least 60 ECTS at the master’s level)
- At least 90 ECTS in a field relevant to the PhD topic, including 30 ECTS closely related to the research
💼 Employment Details
- Full-time, 4-year doctoral position (extendable to 5 years with teaching)
- Competitive PhD salary as per Umeå University guidelines
- Duties include research and participation in relevant PhD courses
📝 How to Apply
Apply via Umeå University’s recruitment system (Varbi) at: CLICK HERE !
Submit in English or Swedish:
- Letter of intent (max 2 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Master’s thesis and other supporting documents (e.g. publications)
📧 Contact:
For questions, reach out to Dr. Stéphane Verger: Email Id.
📌 Ref. Number: AN 2.2.1-699-25