Lincoln University has an exciting opportunity for a PhD Fellowship focused on a big challenge in grape growing: grapevine trunk disease. You’ll be involved in a groundbreaking project using microbiome engineering to help create grapevines that can resist this disease. The fellowship offers a generous tax-free stipend of $35,000 annually, coverage for university fees and support for your research. This is a great chance to make a real impact in viticulture!
We’re excited to invite applications for this PhD fellowship! If you’re about to finish or have already completed a first or upper-second-class Bachelor’s degree with honours, or a Master’s degree in plant pathology, plant microbiology, or a related area, we want to hear from you.
We’re looking for someone who is passionate about plant pathology and microbiology and ideally has some experience using molecular tools to explore microbial populations. It’s important that you can work well both independently and as part of a team. Plus, having a current driver’s license is a must. If this sounds like you, we’d love to see your application! The team must possess a valid driver’s license.
Brief Description
- University or Organization: Lincoln University
- Department: Plant & Food Research, Bragato Research Institute
- Application Deadline: 1 December 2024
- Course Level: PhD
- Award: $35,000 per annum tax-free stipend, university enrolment fees, and operating budget
- Access Mode: Online
- Nationality: International
- The award can be taken in: New Zealand
Lincoln University, through the Plant & Food Research department at the Bragato Research Institute, is offering a PhD position with an application deadline of December 1, 2024. The award includes a tax-free stipend of $35,000 per annum, university enrollment fees, and an operating budget. This opportunity is available for international applicants and can be pursued online, with the award taking place in New Zealand. Only one award will be granted.
Eligibility
- Applicants from any corner of the globe are welcome.
- The focus is on studying plant pathology or plant microbiology, especially grapevine trunk diseases (GTD) and microbiome engineering.
- Candidates should possess either a Bachelor’s degree (with first or upper-second-class honours) or a Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- A genuine passion and background in plant pathology or plant microbiology are essential.
- Prior experience using molecular tools to explore microbial populations is a plus.
- Ability to work both independently and as a key member of a research team is important.
- A valid driver’s license is a requirement.
How to Apply
If you would like to apply for the PhD fellowship, please prepare and submit the following documentation to Prof. Eirian Jones at Eirian.Jones@lincoln.ac.nz :-
1. Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be a well-crafted introduction that outlines your interest in the fellowship, highlights your relevant experience, and explains why you are a strong candidate for the PhD program. Be sure to address your letter to Prof. Jones and include any specific research interests that align with the fellowship.
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV): Please provide a comprehensive CV that details your academic background, professional experience, research projects, publications, and any relevant skills. This document should give a clear overview of your qualifications and accomplishments.
3. Academic Transcripts: Include official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended. These transcripts should reflect your academic performance and achievements throughout your previous studies.
4. Referee Contact Details: Provide the contact information for two referees who can speak to your academic abilities and potential as a researcher. Ensure that you inform your referees in advance, so they are prepared to provide a reference when contacted.
Make sure all documents are submitted in a single email and are clearly labelled with your name. If you have any questions about the application process, please do not hesitate to reach out to Prof. Jones.
Benefits
This three-year fellowship provides a tax-free stipend of $35,000 per annum, along with coverage of university enrollment fees and an operating budget to facilitate research activities. The selected candidate will participate in advanced research focused on microbiome engineering aimed at mitigating grapevine trunk disease (GTD), which will yield direct benefits to the viticulture industry. The program seeks to develop a GTD-tolerant plant through microbiome engineering techniques, offering an environmentally sustainable solution to a prevalent agricultural challenge.
The candidate will receive mentorship from esteemed staff at Lincoln University, Plant & Food Research Ltd., and the Bragato Research Institute. The anticipated enrollment date for the fellowship is March 1, 2025.
