SET
ResForest_Micro: Elucidation of the Forest Microbiome and its Potential to Control Major Fungal Diseases in Key Tree Species
✓ Fully Funded
⏰ Closing Soon
🎓 Microbiology
🎓 Molecular Biology
funded PhD
biocontrol
endophytes
forest microbiome
forestry research
fungal diseases
rhizosphere
tree pathogens
Funded PhD at South East Technological University focused on forest microbiomes and their use in controlling major fungal diseases in important tree species.
Project Description
This four-year PhD project is part of the wider ResilientForests programme and focuses on understanding the forest microbiome and its role in disease management in Irish forestry systems. The research will examine how microbial communities in the rhizosphere and endosphere influence tree health, stress resilience, and defence against pathogens.
The project will:
characterise root, rhizosphere, and endophytic microbiomes of key tree species
isolate and screen beneficial microbes against major pathogens
develop and test bio-inocula to reduce seedling mortality and improve resilience
establish a national microbial biobank
provide practical guidance for forestry, nursery, and breeding applications
Target pathogens include Phytophthora alni, Phytophthora ramorum, Armillaria species, and Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. The project supports nature-based approaches to forest health and aligns with EU goals for reducing chemical pesticide use.
The candidate will be based in SETU Carlow and will work full-time over 48 months.
Entry Requirements
Degree equivalent to Level 8, second class honours or higher, in microbiology, bioscience, or molecular biology
Applicants whose first language is not English must meet SETU English language requirements
Strong written and oral communication skills
Good time management
Ability to work independently and in a team
Desirable:
Master’s degree
Experience with microbial or plant culture
DNA extraction
bioinformatic analysis
statistical analysis using R
knowledge of computational biology and bioinformatics
driver’s licence and transport for field sampling
Applicants whose first language is not English must meet SETU English language requirements
Strong written and oral communication skills
Good time management
Ability to work independently and in a team
Desirable:
Master’s degree
Experience with microbial or plant culture
DNA extraction
bioinformatic analysis
statistical analysis using R
knowledge of computational biology and bioinformatics
driver’s licence and transport for field sampling
How to Apply
Complete the online SETU application form.
Quote advert reference code SETU_2025_01_WSCH.
Upload all supporting documents with the application.
For informal queries, contact kieran.germaine@setu.ie
For admissions queries, contact researchadmissions@setu.ie
Quote advert reference code SETU_2025_01_WSCH.
Upload all supporting documents with the application.
For informal queries, contact kieran.germaine@setu.ie
For admissions queries, contact researchadmissions@setu.ie
Eligibility
UK/Home
EU
International
Supervisor Profile
DK
Dr Kieran Germaine, Dr Dheeraj Rathore
South East Technological University (Waterford), Research Support Unit
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