Contribution of Pedological, Agronomic, and Microbiological Factors to Primary Inoculum Dynamics of *Fusarium graminearum*
Explore the interplay between soil, crop management, and microbial ecology to understand and mitigate Fusarium head blight in wheat.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a BSc or MSc in agronomy, ecology, microbiology, or related fields, interested in interdisciplinary plant pathology and sustainable agriculture.
Overview
This PhD project at Université Clermont Auvergne investigates how soil properties, agricultural practices, and microbial communities influence the spread of *Fusarium graminearum*, the primary pathogen causing Fusarium head blight in wheat. The research aims to identify key factors driving the primary inoculum dynamics of this devastating disease, offering insights for sustainable disease management strategies. The successful candidate will conduct field and laboratory experiments, collaborate with agronomic and microbiological experts, and contribute to advancing agricultural resilience. The project is ideal for applicants with a strong background in agronomy, ecology, or microbiology, seeking to bridge disciplinary boundaries in plant pathology.
What you'll do
- Conduct field and laboratory experiments to study the dynamics of *Fusarium graminearum* inoculum under varying soil and agronomic conditions.
- Analyze soil samples to assess microbial communities and their influence on pathogen spread.
- Collaborate with agronomic experts to design and implement sustainable disease management strategies.
- Develop and validate models to predict primary inoculum dynamics based on environmental and management factors.
- Present research findings at academic conferences and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
- Contribute to interdisciplinary discussions on plant pathology, soil health, and agricultural sustainability.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (MSc) in Agronomy, Ecology, Microbiology, Plant Pathology, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: French proficiency; English proficiency for academic communication
Instruction: French
- Experience in field or laboratory research related to plant pathology or microbiology
- Familiarity with soil sampling and analysis techniques
- Knowledge of statistical analysis methods for biological data
- Proficiency in conducting experiments under controlled and field conditions
- Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams
- Open to international applicants
- No specific residency or age restrictions mentioned
- No prior experience caps
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-10
Applicants must submit their application through the official Campus France portal for doctoral positions. The application should include a CV, a cover letter detailing research interests and motivation, academic transcripts, and a research proposal aligned with the project objectives. Additional documents may be requested upon review.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
- Research proposal (aligned with project objectives)
- Letter of motivation
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