Offer Description
River valleys in Europe have been subject to intense anthropogenic pressure for centuries, primarily associated with river flow regulation, water pollution, agricultural expansion, urban development, and recreational activities. The channels of the vast majority of European rivers have been regulated and, consequently, have lost much of their natural character. In addition, flood embankments have been constructed along many rivers. As a result, floods, which are characteristic of river valleys, are no longer regular phenomena but rather occur sporadically. Nevertheless, river valleys are still regarded as important corridors facilitating the migration of various groups of plants and animals. They are also still recognised as regional centres of biodiversity.
A number of vascular plant species occurring in Central Europe show a distinct confinement in their distribution to the valleys of large rivers. These species are termed as river corridor plants. The association of plants with the valleys of large rivers was already observed by phytogeographers in the mid-nineteenth century. Although numerous hypotheses have been proposed to explain this phenomenon, identifying the mechanisms underlying this distinctive distribution pattern remains an important challenge for plant geographers and ecologists.
The aim of the proposed research is to comprehensively investigate the importance of soil physicochemical properties and soil microorganisms in shaping the distribution ranges of vascular plant species associated with the valleys of large rivers. The project will include both analyses based on soil and plant samples collected from the valleys of major rivers in Poland and experimental studies.
As part of the project, we will determine the relationship between the degree of mycorrhizal development in species representing the group of river corridor plants and in widespread species (i.e. species that show no particular association with the valleys of large rivers), and both the structure of soil microbial communities and the physicochemical properties of soils at sites located at different distances from the channels of large rivers.
In addition, a pot experiment will be conducted to assess the effects of soil microorganisms and soil physicochemical properties on species representing river corridor plants and widespread species. For both groups of plants, we will analyse photosynthetic parameters, biomass, and the concentrations of selected elements in the biomass of plants grown in different soil types.
In addition to your research, you will:
- publish your results in peer-reviewed scientific journals, which will form the foundation of your PhD thesis;
- present your findings at national and international conferences;
- participate in relevant training courses that are relevant for your research.
Where to apply
E-mail: agnieszka.nobis@uj.edu.pl
Website: https://irk.uj.edu.pl/pl/
Skills/Qualifications
- Strong motivation to pursue scientific research and willingness to undertake new research challenges;
- Commitment to conducting fieldwork and laboratory work;
- Ability to work effectively as part of a research team;
- Ability to perform statistical analyses;
- Very good command of spoken and written English, enabling the preparation of scientific manuscripts and the presentation of research findings at international scientific conferences.
Specific Requirements
- Documented experience in research on riparian ecosystems;
- Experience working in an international academic environment (e.g. participation in a student exchange programme, an international research internship, or an international research project) will be considered an additional advantage.
Additional Information
Benefits
Duration of studies: 4 years. Monthly salary: approx. €970 for the first two years and € 1500 for the following two years.
Website for additional job details: https://science.phd.uj.edu.pl/admission/grants/-/journal_content/56_INSTANCE_H7…
