MSc internship / thesis project: Bacteriophages as drivers of soil biogeochemistry

Soil viruses are among the least explored components of terrestrial ecosystems. Viruses that infect bacteria (phages) are abundant in soil, with potentially strong influence on carbon cycling, plant nutrition, and greenhouse gas production.

In this project, we investigate the soil virosphere to assess phage interactions with soil materials, host bacteria, and soil fauna, with the aim of understanding their influence on carbon and nitrogen cycling. Techniques include experimentation with model organisms, molecular methods applied to whole communities, and stable isotope probing to follow element flows.

The project offers opportunities for MSc theses or internships, and will provide space to develop original hypotheses and experiments within the broader research question. Students will master skills at the cutting edge of soil ecology research.

Skills required: candidates should have a background in biological or soil sciences, with some laboratory experience in chemistry, soil science or microbiology. Self-motivation and the ability to work independently is needed. The working language will be English, so knowledge of Dutch will not be necessary.

Students will be hosted from May/June 2023 or later at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO) for a period of up to 6 months (dates are flexible). For enquiries, please contact Dr Kyle Mason-Jones at k.masonjones@nioo.knaw.nl.