Fully Funded PhD Scholarship: Epigenetics and Rapid Adaptation – Utrecht University, Netherlands
Quick Overview
Utrecht University is offering a PhD position investigating whether heritable changes in gene expression driven by epigenetic marks contribute to rapid adaptation in wild plant populations. This project uses CRISPR/Cas9 and SunTag-based epigenomic editing in apomictic dandelions to test whether epialleles drive heritable trait variation across generations by establishing causal links between DNA methylation, gene expression, and inherited traits. This pioneering work marks the first application of transient epigenome editing in a wild, non-model plant species.
Key Details
| Position | PhD Researcher |
| Project | Epigenetics and rapid adaptation in apomictic dandelions |
| Institution | Utrecht University |
| Location | Utrecht, Netherlands (with collaboration at NIOO-KNAW, Wageningen) |
| Qualification | MSc in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, Plant Sciences, or related field |
| Salary | €3,204 – €4,051 per month + 8% holiday pay + 8.3% year-end bonus |
| Duration | 4 years (18 months initial, extended upon positive assessment) |
| Start Date | To be agreed |
| Deadline | September 17, 2026 |
| Apply Via | Utrecht University application portal |
| Contact | Dr. Jason Gardiner – j.l.gardiner@uu.nl |
Research Project
To face climate change and other environmental challenges, the capacity for rapid adaptation is crucial for both natural plant populations and crops. Heritable trait variation fuels such adaptation. While heritable trait variation can arise from genetic and epigenetic sources alike, the true contribution of epigenetics to plant adaptation remains uncertain. The primary challenge lies in distinguishing genetic from epigenetic effects and establishing a causal relationship between DNA methylation variants and gene expression.
In a collaborative project between Utrecht University (UU) and the Netherlands Institute of Ecology in Wageningen (NIOO-KNAW), this project uses an apomictic dandelion lineage as a unique model system. Because apomictic plants reproduce through clonal seeds, they allow us to disentangle genetic from epigenetic effects with unprecedented clarity.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and use state-of-the-art CRISPR/Cas9-based technologies to target DNA methylation maintenance machinery, inducing genome-wide hypomethylation to identify genes regulated by methylation
- Deploy an advanced, inducible Suntag-TET1cd epigenomic editing system to target specific candidate epialleles, proving the causal link between DNA methylation and gene expression
- Investigate the transgenerational stability of these epigenetic marks over multiple generations
- Collaborate closely with the second PhD project at NIOO-KNAW
Candidate Profile
Required:
- MSc in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, Plant Sciences, or related field
- Experience in molecular biology techniques
- Ability to communicate and organize work effectively
- Good command of written and spoken English
Desirable (not required):
- CRISPR/Cas9 or other genome-editing technologies
- Agrobacterium-mediated transformation
- Bioinformatics
- Plant phenotyping or microscopy
- DNA methylation analysis (e.g., bisulfite sequencing)
- Plant tissue culture
What They Offer
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | €3,204 – €4,051 per month |
| Holiday Pay | 8% |
| Year-end Bonus | 8.3% |
| Duration | 4 years |
| Location | Utrecht, Netherlands |
| Pension | Pension scheme |
| Parental Leave | Partially paid |
Application Tips
- Highlight molecular biology experience – CRISPR/Cas9 and genome editing skills are highly relevant.
- Show interest in epigenetics – Understanding of DNA methylation and gene expression.
- Emphasize plant science background – Experience with plant transformation or tissue culture.
- Apply through UU portal only – Applications via email will not be considered.
- Include references – Names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of at least two referees.
How to Apply
Apply through the Utrecht University application portal.
Required documents:
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum vitae
- Names, telephone numbers, and email addresses of at least two references
- Copy of Master’s certificate or letter stating when degree will be issued
Application Deadline: September 17, 2026
Contact: Dr. Jason Gardiner – j.l.gardiner@uu.nl
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the project focus? Epigenetics and rapid adaptation in apomictic dandelions.
- What is the qualification requirement? MSc in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Biotechnology, or related field.
- What is the salary? €3,204 – €4,051 per month.
- What is the duration? 4 years.
- What is the deadline? September 17, 2026.
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