PhD fellowship in sustainable protein production in rapeseed

at  KU SCIENCE PLEN

Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen
We are seeking a talented PhD fellow to join our team in advancing sustainable plant-based protein production at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences. The successful candidate will work on elucidating the molecular mechanisms governing seed quality traits, with a focus on protein content and composition in rapeseed (Brassica napus) under low nitrogen input conditions.
The PhD position is available for 3 years with a start date of 1st Jan, 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR ?

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate who will take initiative and responsibility, work independently and thrive in a collaborative environment. The candidate we are looking for has the following competencies and experience:

• MSc degree in plant biology, genetics, or a related field
• Experience in plant molecular biology and genetics
• Proficiency in written and spoken English
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team

Practical experience with the following techniques is favored but not a necessity:

• Research experience in plant genetics, metabolism, seed biology, or rapeseed biology
• Familiarity with GWAS, protein quantification and analysis, single-cell or spatial transcriptomics, and data science
• Experience with greenhouse and/or field studies
• Knowledge of transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and multivariate data analysis

QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED FOR THE REGULAR PROGRAMME

To be eligible for the regular PhD programme, you must have completed a degree programme, equivalent to a Danish master’s degree (180 ECTS/3 FTE BSc + 120 ECTS/2 FTE MSc) related to the subject area of the project. For information of eligibility of completed programmes, see General assessments for specific countries and Assessment database .

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS IN THE PHD PROGRAM

Your key tasks as a PhD student are to:

• Manage and carry through your research project under supervision
• Complete PhD courses corresponding to approx. 30 ECTS / ½ FTE
• Participate in active research environments, including a stay at another research institution, preferably abroad
• Write scientific papers aimed at international peer-reviewed journals
• Participate in conferences
• Teach, supervise BSc and MSc students, and disseminate your research
• Write and defend a PhD thesis on the basis of your project

The tasks will be diverse and include:

• Screen rapeseed cultivars for distinct protein compositions and quantities under low nitrogen input conditions
• Identify key genes associated with protein quantity and composition using population genetics and molecular genetic approaches
• Characterize gene functions and their physiological roles in planta using molecular genetic tools such as CRISPR
• Collaborate with team members to establish rapeseed as a future protein food crop in sustainable agriculture systems
• Disseminate findings through internal talks, conferences, and publication