Are you fascinated by the chemical signals that allow fungi to interact with one another? Do you have a background in chemistry, physics, nanotechnology, spectroscopy or a related discipline and want to apply advanced analytical techniques to biological research? Wageningen University & Research is offering a fully funded PhD position in the Netherlands focused on the microscale tracing of molecules involved in fungal interactions in soil.

The project explores how fungal secondary metabolites influence interactions between soil fungi and how these chemical processes affect broader ecosystem functions. A central part of the research will involve developing surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) microspectroscopy sensors to detect and characterize fungal secondary metabolites at the single-cell scale. This is an interdisciplinary PhD opportunity combining spectroscopy, nanotechnology, analytical chemistry, fungal biology, microbial biochemistry and soil science.

About the Research

Soil fungi are fundamental to the functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. They contribute to global carbon and nutrient cycling and are among the most productive natural sources of secondary metabolites. Many fungal secondary metabolites, however, remain poorly understood. Their chemical structures, biological functions and ecological roles are not always known.

Understanding these compounds can reveal how fungi communicate, compete and cooperate within soil communities. It can also provide a better understanding of how microscopic microbial interactions influence larger ecosystem processes. The INTERSPEC project aims to develop new experimental approaches for tracing soil fungal secondary metabolites using surface-enhanced Raman scattering microspectroscopy.

SERS uses the optical properties of metallic nanoparticles to enhance Raman signals, allowing researchers to detect specific molecules with high sensitivity.

In this PhD, the researcher will develop SERS-based approaches for the targeted detection and characterization of fungal secondary metabolites across both space and time. The work will be carried out in close collaboration with another PhD researcher and two postdoctoral researchers involved in the wider project across the Netherlands and Sweden.

What Will the PhD Researcher Do?

The successful candidate will have an active role in developing experimental methods for identifying and tracing fungal metabolites. The main responsibilities include the following.

Isolation of Fungal Compounds

You will isolate individual interaction-specific compounds from soil fungal co-cultures. The isolated compounds will then be investigated using spectroscopy techniques to determine their molecular structures.

SERS Sensor Development

You will investigate how specific secondary metabolites interact with gold nanoparticle-based SERS sensors. This work will help establish effective methods for detecting fungal metabolites using enhanced Raman signals.

Molecular Tracing in Biological Systems

Another important part of the PhD will be identifying strategies for tracing fungal secondary metabolites within complex biological environments. This includes exploring nanoparticle functionalization approaches that can improve the performance and specificity of SERS-based detection.

Spectral Data Analysis

You will analyze and interpret spectral data generated during the research. This will require careful interpretation of Raman and SERS signals and their relationship to specific molecular compounds.

Scientific Communication

Scientific writing will be an important part of the position. You will communicate your findings through research papers, reports, presentations and other academic outputs.

Research Environment

The PhD research is embedded within the Chair of Biophysics and the Microbial Biochemistry in Soils team at Wageningen University & Research. The team is led by Dr. Milda Pucetaite. The project offers an interdisciplinary research environment where researchers from different scientific backgrounds work together on questions related to microbial chemistry and environmental processes. This makes the position particularly interesting for candidates who want to combine advanced spectroscopy with biological and environmental research.

Eligibility and Requirements

Candidates should have a strong academic background relevant to the research project. A successfully completed or soon-to-be-completed MSc degree is required in one of the following areas:

• Chemistry
• Nanoscience
• Nanotechnology
• Physics
• A related discipline relevant to the project

Experience with optical spectroscopy is important, particularly Raman microspectroscopy. Previous experience with SERS is considered a strong advantage. Experience with metal nanoparticle synthesis can also strengthen an application, as gold nanoparticles are an important component of the research. Experience working with biological samples is another advantage. The ideal candidate will be scientifically curious, independent and motivated while also being comfortable working in a highly interdisciplinary research environment.

English Language Requirement

Strong written and spoken English skills are required. For this position, an English proficiency level equivalent to C1 is expected. In some cases, an internationally recognized English-language certificate may be required. Applicants should be prepared to provide evidence of their English proficiency if requested during the recruitment process.

Salary and Employment Conditions

This is a fully funded PhD position with a full-time working week of 38 hours. The gross monthly salary starts at approximately €3,059 in the first year and increases to approximately €3,881 in the fourth year, in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO-NU), scale P.

The initial employment contract is for 18 months and can be extended for the remaining duration of the PhD project subject to satisfactory performance. The position provides an opportunity to pursue doctoral research while receiving a competitive salary and employee benefits under the Dutch university employment system.

Benefits at Wageningen University & Research

PhD researchers at Wageningen University & Research have access to a range of employment benefits.

These include:

• Partially paid parental leave.
• Flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance.
• Access to sports facilities on campus for a small fee.
• An 8.3% fixed year-end bonus.
• An excellent pension scheme.
• A tailored PhD course and training programme.

The university also places strong emphasis on professional development and internal career opportunities.

PhD Training and Development

The successful candidate will receive a course programme tailored to individual development needs and the requirements of the research team. This provides an opportunity to strengthen both technical research skills and broader academic competencies.

Depending on the needs of the project, the research environment can support development in areas such as experimental design, spectroscopy, data interpretation, scientific communication and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Work Location: Wageningen, Netherlands

The position is based in Wageningen, the Netherlands. Wageningen University & Research is internationally known for research and education in life sciences, food, agriculture and environmental science. The university brings together researchers from different disciplines to address complex challenges involving food systems, natural resources, ecosystems and the living environment.

For this particular PhD, that interdisciplinary approach is central to the research. The project connects fundamental spectroscopy and nanotechnology with fungal biology and soil microbial processes. The university campus provides an international research environment with researchers and students from many different countries.

International Applicants

International candidates are welcome to apply for the position. Wageningen University & Research provides support for international employees moving to the Netherlands. Advisers can assist with Dutch immigration and visa procedures for successful candidates and, where applicable, their families. International employees can also receive practical information and support concerning:

• Housing
• Opening a bank account
• Schooling
• Dual-career programmes
• Relocation to the Netherlands

The university’s Welcome Center can provide additional guidance to international employees. Certain categories of international employees may also qualify for a tax exemption on part of their salary during their first five years in the Netherlands, subject to applicable eligibility requirements.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit their application through the Wageningen University & Research recruitment system: https://www.wur.nl/en/vacancy/phd-microscale-tracing-molecules-driving-fungal-interactions-soil . The application should contain a concise academic CV and motivation letter. For this position, you must fill in a mandatory form which will allow us to have a comprehensive view of your qualifications and better assess your fit for it. You can access the form using the link below:

PhD:  Microscale Tracing of Molecules Driving Fungal Interactions in Soil – Fill out form

Your prompt response will ensure that your application continues to move forward in the evaluation process. We assure you that the information provided will be kept confidential and used solely for this application process.

Required Documents

Curriculum Vitae: Maximum 2 pages.

Motivation Letter: Maximum 1 page.

The total length of these documents must not exceed 3 pages.

Academic transcripts and grade documents are not required at this stage.

Mandatory Additional Information Form

Applicants must also complete a mandatory additional information form.

The form is designed to provide the recruitment team with a broader picture of the candidate’s qualifications and suitability for the research project.

The form is titled:

PhD: Microscale Tracing of Molecules Driving Fungal Interactions in Soil – Fill out form

Completing this form is part of the application process.

Application Deadline

The application deadline is Thursday, September 3, 2026.

Candidates are encouraged to prepare their application well before the closing date, particularly because the CV, motivation letter and additional information form all need to be completed.

Contact Information

For questions about the research project, contact:

Dr. Milda Pucetaite
Assistant Professor
Email: milda.pucetaite@wur.nl

For questions about the recruitment procedure, contact:

Evelien Janssen
Corporate Recruiter
Email: evelien.janssen@wur.nl

PhD Position Summary

Detail	Information
Position	PhD: Microscale Tracing of Molecules Driving Fungal Interactions in Soil
University	Wageningen University & Research
Location	Wageningen, Netherlands
Field	PhD & EngD
Degree required	Master’s degree
Research areas	SERS, Raman spectroscopy, fungal interactions, nanotechnology, soil science
Funding	Fully funded
Working hours	38 hours per week
Initial contract	18 months
Salary	€3,059/month in Year 1 rising to €3,881/month in Year 4
CV limit	2 pages
Motivation letter	1 page
Total documents	Maximum 3 pages
English requirement	C1 level
Deadline	September 3, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this PhD fully funded?

Yes. This is a fully funded PhD position at Wageningen University & Research in the Netherlands.

The successful candidate receives a salary as a university employee while completing the doctoral research project.

What is the main focus of the PhD?

The research focuses on identifying and tracing secondary metabolites produced by soil fungi and understanding their role in fungal interactions.

The project uses SERS microspectroscopy and gold nanoparticle-based sensors to investigate these molecules at a highly localized scale.

What is SERS?

SERS stands for surface-enhanced Raman scattering.

It is an advanced spectroscopy technique that uses specially prepared metal surfaces or nanoparticles to enhance Raman signals from molecules.

In this project, gold nanoparticles are used as part of the strategy for detecting fungal secondary metabolites.

What degree do I need for this PhD?

Applicants should have a completed or soon-to-be-completed MSc degree in Chemistry, Nanoscience, Nanotechnology, Physics or another relevant field.

Do I need Raman spectroscopy experience?

Experience with optical spectroscopy, particularly Raman microspectroscopy, is an important qualification for this position.

Candidates with relevant Raman experience should explain their practical skills clearly in their application.

Is SERS experience required?

Previous SERS experience is a strong advantage but is not presented as an absolute requirement.

Experience with metal nanoparticle synthesis is also considered valuable.

Can I apply if my background is in nanotechnology?

Yes.

Nanotechnology is specifically listed among the relevant academic backgrounds.

Experience with nanoparticles, spectroscopy, nanomaterial synthesis or related analytical techniques can be particularly relevant.

Can international students apply?

Yes. International candidates are welcome to apply.

Wageningen University & Research provides support with immigration procedures and practical relocation matters for international employees.

What is the PhD salary in the Netherlands?

The salary for this position starts at approximately €3,059 gross per month during the first year and rises to approximately €3,881 gross per month during the fourth year.

The position is based on a 38-hour working week.

How long is the contract?

The initial contract is for 18 months.

It can be extended for the duration of the project subject to satisfactory performance.

How many pages should my CV be?

The CV must not exceed 2 pages.

The motivation letter must not exceed 1 page, giving a combined maximum of three pages.

Do I need to submit academic transcripts?

No. Transcripts and grade documents are not required during the initial application stage.

What English level is required?

The expected English proficiency level is C1.

Depending on the candidate’s circumstances, an internationally recognized English-language certificate may be required.

When is the application deadline?

The application deadline is September 3, 2026.

Where is the PhD located?

The position is based in Wageningen, the Netherlands, at Wageningen University & Research.