Fully Funded MS/PhD: Biological Control of Nematodes – University of Florida, USA
Quick Overview
The University of Florida’s Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center is seeking a motivated student for a funded MSc or PhD position starting January 2027. The research focuses on advancing the understanding and application of biological control agents for nematode management in vegetable and subtropical fruit crops.
Experience Level: BS (MSc applicants) or MSc (PhD applicants) in relevant fields
Best Fit: Candidates with experience in microbial biocontrol, molecular biology, and nematology
Deadline: 10 September 2026
Key Details
| Position | MSc or PhD Researcher |
| Research Focus | Biological control of nematodes in vegetable and subtropical fruit crops |
| Institution | University of Florida |
| Location | Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, Davie, South Florida, USA |
| Start Date | January 2027 |
| Apply Via | ahajihassani@ufl.edu |
| Contact | Dr. Hajihassani |
Qualifications
MSc Applicants:
- BS in Agriculture, Biology, Crop Science/Protection, or related field
- Competitive TOEFL/IELTS scores meeting UF graduate admission requirements
PhD Applicants:
- MSc in Agriculture, Nematology, Plant Pathology, or Microbiology
- At least one relevant peer-reviewed publication in a reputable journal
- Competitive TOEFL/IELTS scores meeting UF graduate admission requirements
Preferred Skills (Both Levels):
- Hands-on experience with isolation, culturing, and mass production of microbial biocontrol agents
- Proficiency in molecular identification techniques (PCR, qPCR, sequencing)
- Experience with genetic diversity assessment (whole-genome sequencing, SNP analysis, or microsatellite markers)
Research Focus
The lab focuses on advancing the understanding and application of biological control agents for nematode management in:
- Vegetable crops
- Subtropical fruit crops
Application Tips
- Highlight biocontrol experience – Isolation, culturing, and mass production of microbial agents.
- Show molecular biology skills – PCR, qPCR, sequencing, and genetic diversity analysis.
- Include publications – For PhD applicants, at least one peer-reviewed publication is required.
- Prepare application package – Brief letter of motivation, CV, and papers (for PhD applicants).
- Meet UF requirements – Competitive TOEFL/IELTS scores required.
How to Apply
Submit the following to Dr. Hajihassani at ahajihassani@ufl.edu:
- Brief letter of motivation
- CV
- Papers (for PhD applicants)
Note: Only candidates who meet the qualifications will be contacted for an interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the start date? January 2027.
- What are the qualifications for MSc applicants? BS in Biology, Crop Science, or related field.
- What are the qualifications for PhD applicants? MSc in Nematology, Plant Pathology, or Microbiology with at least one publication.
- What skills are preferred? Microbial biocontrol experience and molecular biology techniques.
- How to apply? Email application materials to ahajihassani@ufl.edu.
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