PhD Position in Experimental Botany at Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic
Palacký University Olomouc is inviting applications for a PhD position in Experimental Botany at the Faculty of Science. This doctoral project offers an exceptional opportunity to investigate how steroid contaminants such as progestogens and androgens affect root development in land plants. Hosted in the research group of Dr. Jan Klein, the project combines molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, and plant physiology to address a timely question with implications for agriculture, ecosystem resilience, and food security.
The PhD position in Experimental Botany at Palacký University Olomouc offers a compelling opportunity to work on a scientifically rigorous and societally important problem. By exploring how environmental steroid contaminants reshape plant root systems, the successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research with implications for food security, ecosystem health, and agricultural sustainability. For students passionate about plant molecular biology and environmental science, this is an outstanding doctoral opportunity in the heart of Europe.
Research Project Overview
Healthy root systems are essential for plant survival. Roots anchor plants in the soil, absorb water and nutrients, and mediate interactions with beneficial microorganisms.
Recent research has shown that progestogens and androgens—steroid compounds produced by both mammals and plants—can significantly alter root morphology and reduce final root length in numerous plant species.
These findings are important because environmental contamination by these compounds has been detected in surface waters worldwide. In combination with climate change and other environmental pressures, this contamination may compromise plant productivity and ecosystem stability.
Scientific Background
The project builds on two influential studies:
- Shiko et al. (2023), which demonstrated that progestogens and androgens occur naturally and are metabolized in land plants.
- Körber et al. (2025), which showed that these compounds alter root morphology in angiosperms independently of brassinosteroid signaling.
Together, these studies raise fundamental questions about how steroid pollutants influence plant development at the molecular level.
Research Objectives
The selected PhD candidate will investigate:
- Molecular mechanisms underlying disrupted root development
- Hormonal and signaling pathways affected by steroid exposure
- Cellular changes in root tissues
- Translational relevance of findings from Arabidopsis to crop plants
The broader goal is to understand how environmental contaminants affect plant resilience and agricultural sustainability.
Methods and Training
The doctoral student will receive advanced training in:
- Molecular biology
- Cell biology
- Biochemistry
- Confocal microscopy
- Gene expression analysis
- Arabidopsis genetics
- Plant phenotyping
This interdisciplinary toolkit will provide strong preparation for academic and industry careers in plant science and biotechnology.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The position is suited to highly motivated applicants with a background in:
- Plant Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Biotechnology
- Experimental Botany
- Related life science disciplines
Strong analytical skills, scientific curiosity, and enthusiasm for laboratory research are essential.
Why This PhD Project Matters
This research addresses a critical and emerging issue in environmental plant science.
By uncovering how steroid contaminants affect root architecture, the project contributes to:
- Food security research
- Environmental toxicology
- Plant developmental biology
- Sustainable agriculture
- Climate resilience studies
Few PhD opportunities combine such fundamental molecular questions with direct ecological and agricultural relevance.
Research Environment
The Faculty of Science at Palacký University offers:
- A welcoming international atmosphere
- Modern research facilities
- Strong international collaborations
- Close mentorship
- Opportunities to work on globally relevant scientific questions
Olomouc is one of Central Europe’s most attractive student cities, known for its rich history, affordable living costs, and vibrant academic culture.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to contact the project supervisor directly Email: jan.klein@uni-jena.de. Prepare the following materials: Relevant certificates
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Brief summary of research interests
- Contact details for referees
Contact Information: Dr. Jan Klein
Email: jan.klein@uni-jena.de
Phone: +49 157 79768194
Applicants should follow the instructions provided in the following QR code or application portal if specified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this PhD position fully funded?
The advertisement describes a formal PhD position within a funded research group, which typically includes financial support. Applicants should confirm specific funding details with the supervisor.
What organism will be used in the project?
The primary model organism is Arabidopsis thaliana, with additional work extending to crop plants.
What research methods will I learn?
You will gain experience in molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry, along with advanced plant phenotyping approaches.
Do I need prior experience with Arabidopsis?
Prior experience is helpful but not essential if you have a strong background in plant or molecular biology.
Where is Palacký University located?
The university is located in Olomouc, Czech Republic.
What scientific topics does this project address?
The project spans plant development, environmental toxicology, hormone signaling, and sustainable agriculture.
How should I apply?
Contact Dr. Jan Klein directly using the email address jan.klein@uni-jena.de
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