Ph.D. candidate - Tracing "forever chemicals" along the soil-feed-ruminant food web

Ph.D. candidate position at Agroscope in Posieux, Switzerland, focusing on tracing PFAS transfer through the soil-feed-ruminant food web. The role involves field sampling, data analysis, and modeling within an international research consortium.

Agroscope, the Swiss federal centre of excellence for agriculture and food research, is seeking a Ph.D. candidate to investigate the movement of "forever chemicals" (PFAS) through the soil-feed-ruminant food web. This position aims to understand how these contaminants transfer from soil to plants, and subsequently to milk and meat, contributing to sustainable ruminant production systems.

Responsibilities

• Plan and carry out field sampling campaigns, including sample preparation and providing laboratory support.
• Manage data, perform statistical evaluations, and interpret results.
• Investigate biotic and abiotic factors influencing PFAS transfer from soil to plants.
• Model the transfer of PFAS from soil and feed to milk and meat products.
• Communicate and publish findings in scientific journals and prepare reports for funders and stakeholders.
• Manage project aspects and collaborate within an international research consortium.

Requirements

• Master's degree in agricultural sciences, environmental sciences, environmental chemistry, or a related field.
• Strong interest in sustainable ruminant production systems and environmental contaminants.
• Experience in conducting field trials, performing statistical data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate within a multidisciplinary and international research team.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Very good knowledge of two official Swiss languages and spoken and written English.

What the company offers

• Working for Switzerland: committed to the successful Swiss model and work for the public good.
• Embracing diversity: equal opportunities, drawing on expertise and contributing different perspectives.
• Staying healthy at work: support and advice in the area of physical and mental health.
• All benefits available through the Swiss federal administration.

About the company

Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.

• Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.