NIOO-KNAW Netherlands Institute of Ecology 
Wageningen, Netherlands Offer Summary
The Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO‑KNAW) is offering a 6‑month student internship in Wageningen focused on sustainable agriculture. Interns will investigate how recycled organic residues influence microbiome functions that promote plant growth. Tasks include rhizosphere soil sampling, DNA extraction, sequencing, qPCR, enzyme assays, and plant nutrient and growth assessments. Candidates should have a background in microbiology, soil science, plant science, or environmental science and a strong interest in microbial ecology and circular economy practices. The internship provides hands‑on greenhouse research experience and collaboration with PhDs and PostDocs in plant‑microbe interactions. Apply by sending a resume and statement of interest to Prof. Eiko Kuramae (e.kuramae@nioo.knaw.nl).
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Project Description
Are you excited about sustainable agriculture and soil and plant microbes? We are offering an internship focused on how recycled organic residues shape microbiome functions that promote plant growth. This project investigates the impact of microbial communities in nutrient cycling and plant development, aiming to enhance resource efficiency and sustainability in agriculture.
What you will do:
- Explore how recycled residues from different sources impact rhizosphere soil microbial functions related to nutrient cycling and plant development.
- Conduct hands-on research including rhizosphere soil sampling, microbiome analysis (DNA extraction, sequencing, qPCR, enzyme activity), and plant nutrient and growth assessments.
What we are looking for:
- Students or recent graduates in microbiology, soil science, plant science, environmental science, or related fields.
- Interest in microbial ecology, soil and plant health and quality, circular economy and sustainable agricultural practices.
- Strong enthusiasm for lab research and greenhouse, including microbial analysis techniques and data interpretation.
- A passion for exploring the use of organic residues to steer microbiome functions for improving plant-microbe interactions.
Why join us?
- Gain practical experience in a critical greenhouse exploring the sustainable use of recycled organic materials to enhance plant growth.
- Work alongside experts PhDs and PostDocs in plant-microbe interactions and soil microbial ecology.
- Be a part of research that promotes sustainability and resource efficiency through the use of microbiome and recycled organic inputs.
Location: Department of Microbial Ecology, Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)
Duration: 6 months
Start: Between October and November 2024
Interested? Applyby sending your resume and a brief statement of interest to prof. Eiko Kuramae, email: e.kuramae@nioo.knaw.nl