PhD Position in Molecular Biology / Biotechnology

Research area: Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Microbiology
Place: BOKU University – Tulln, Austria
Department of Agricultural Sciences, Institute of Microbial Genetics (IMiG)
 

A PhD position is available in the research group of Dr. Lea Atanasova (AG Atanasova) at the Institute of Microbial Genetics (IMiG), Department of Agricultural Sciences, BOKU University, Tulln, Austria.

The successful candidate will join a project exploring novel biological roles of Lytic Polysaccharide Monooxygenases (LPMOs) in the mycoparasitic and plant-associated fungus Clonostachys rosea. These enzyme families are unusually expanded in C. rosea compared to related fungi, suggesting diversified and potentially novel functions beyond polysaccharide degradation.

Research objectives

This PhD project aims to unravel the catalytic, molecular, and biological functions of selected C. rosea LPMO enzymes. We will explore their enzymatic diversity and functions and their potential involvement in plant colonization, pathogenic or effector-like interactions, and direct antagonism against other fungi.

Experimental approaches

The project combines molecular genetics, microbiology, and biochemical methods, including CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in C. rosea, protein expression profiling during plant or fungal interactions, heterologous enzyme expression with activity assays, phenotypic and molecular characterization of mutants, and the integration of computational modeling with in vitro assays to elucidate enzymatic and biological functions.

Your profile

We are looking for a highly motivated and curious candidate with:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or a related field.
• Strong interest in fungal biology, plant–microbe interactions, and enzyme function.
• Experience in molecular techniques (cloning, PCR, transformation, etc.) and microbial work.
• Excellent English communication skills (written and spoken).
• A proactive, analytical, and independent working style.

We offer

• A PhD-position funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF).
• Access to modern laboratory facilities for molecular biology and microbiology research.
• Supportive supervision and collaboration within an international and interdisciplinary research team.
• A dynamic and collegial working atmosphere at BOKU University.
• Eligibility for the Pendlerpauschale for commuting to the Tulln campus (if applicable).

The gross monthly salary (14× per year) follows the FWF salary scheme for PhD students.

Application

Please send your letter of motivation (including a short description of your technical skills), CV, academic transcripts, and contact details of at least two referees (name, email address) as a single PDF file to the contact below, using the reference code: PHD-CrLPMOs.

The application deadline is December 23, 2025.

For any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Contact: Dr. Lea Atanasova, lea.atanasova@boku.ac.at