PhD position hidden soil biodiversity in - and subsoils of canton Graubünden

Overview

Soil sampling at various locations in the canton Graubünden; molecular laboratory work (DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing); X-ray tomography of soil cores; bioinformatic, 3-D image and statistical data analysis and visualization; presentation of work at national and international events and writing of scientific publications; collaboration with various scientists from Agroscope and other institutes.

• Soil sampling at various locations in the canton Graubünden
• Molecular laboratory work (DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing); X-ray tomography of soil cores
• Bioinformatic, 3-D image and statistical data analysis and visualization
• Presentation of work at national and international events and writing of scientific publications
• Collaboration with various scientists from Agroscope and other institutes

Soil organisms have a significant influence on key soil functions. However, despite their important role, data on soil biodiversity in Switzerland is still very limited, and only a few surveys have been conducted on biodiversity in deeper soil layers. The main objective of the dissertation is to survey the biodiversity of microorganisms and mesofauna across all soil layers at various locations in the canton of Graubünden using molecular and imaging technologies.

At selected locations, molecular methods and X-ray tomography will be used to investigate the influence of soil structure on various organisms. The different perspectives on soil biodiversity in both the topsoil and subsoil represent an important milestone in better understanding the soil ecosystem and preserving soil biodiversity.

• Master s degree in biology, environmental sciences, agronomy, or a related subject with knowledge of biodiversity, ecology, soil science and soil ecosystems
• Experience with molecular laboratory work
• Knowledge of a data processing language (e.g., R, Python) and basic statistical skills
• Knowledge of image processing (e.g., microscopy, aerial photography) and a driver s license are an advantage
• Independent, structured, and solution-oriented work style, enjoyment of teamwork
• Knowledge of two official Swiss languages and English

Agroscope is the Swiss federal centre of excellence for research in the agriculture and food sector. Its researchers work at a number of sites in Switzerland. Headquartered in Bern-Liebefeld (as of 2026: Posieux), Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.

• Working for Switzerland:
  We are committed to the successful Swiss model and work for the public good.
• Embracing diversity:
  Thanks to equal opportunities, we draw on our expertise and contribute different perspectives.
• Staying healthy at work:
  We support and advise our employees in the area of physical and mental health.

All living creatures contribute to the operation and stability of ecosystems with their diversity and range of different functions. Many of these functions and traits are determined in the DNA of the organisms. The  Molecular Ecology  Research Group works on and supports genetic diversity-related projects with cutting-edge molecular-biological and bioinformatic approaches.