Deciphering host-pathogen interplay by utilizing biostructure prediction and New Genomic Techniques

Deciphering host-pathogen interplay by utilizing biostructure prediction and New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) to engineer durable disease resistance in plants

Applicants are invited for a PhD fellowship/scholarship at Graduate School of Technical Sciences, Aarhus University, Denmark, within the Agroecology programme. The position is available from 01 February 2027 or later.

Title

Deciphering host-pathogen interplay by utilizing biostructure prediction and New Genomic Techniques (NGTs) to engineer durable disease resistance in plants

Research area and project description

The Department of Agroecology at Aarhus University is offering a PhD position focused on genetic modification of plants for higher resistance to pathogens. The position is available from 01-02-2027, or as soon as possible thereafter. The PhD is part of the project that aims to develop novel and durable disease resistance in cereals by targeting key protein–protein interactions between plants and pathogens. Using hexaploid wheat (Triticum aestivum) and diploid barley (Hordeum vulgare) as model systems, the project will focus on powdery mildew disease caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt) and B. hordei (Bh). The PhD student will establish and optimize an AI-based structural biology modelling and prime editing toolbox and apply it to introduce genome modification in vitro culture. These edits are designed to disrupt critical plant-pathogen protein interactions, thereby enhancing disease resistance without relying on classical resistance genes. Computational prediction tools, including AlphaFold-based protein-protein interaction modeling, will be used to guide target selection and interpret the molecular effects of the edits. Wheat transformation will be carried out in three varieties with contrasting resistance profiles, and barley transformation will be done in Golden Promise. Disease resistance will be assessed through controlled inoculation experiments. Edited and wild‑type plants will be inoculated with Blumeria graminis isolates and evaluated at the whole‑plant level. Overall, the project aims to establish a new resistance concept based on blocking essential plant‑pathogen interactions rather than relying on single resistance genes. This strategy has the potential to deliver more robust and durable disease resistance and to open new avenues for precision breeding in cereal crops. The position is funded by a project supported by the DFF, in collaboration with Copenhagen University and will last 3 years.

Qualifications and specific competences

• Applicants to the PhD position must hold a relevant MSc degree within molecular biology, plant or agricultural sciences, biology, biotechnology or similar.
• Knowledge in plant transformation and in vitro culture
• Experience with Alphafold and/or structural biology.
• Be fluent in English (written and spoken).
• Have scientific writing and communication skills.
• Have the ability to manage your own tasks and collaborate in an international research team.

Place of employment and place of work

The place of employment is Aarhus University, and the place of work is Department of Agroecology, Forsøgsvej 1, 4200 Slagelse, Denmark.

Contacts

• Associate Professor Kim Hebelstrup, e-mail: Kim.hebelstrup@agro.au.dk (main supervisor)
• Tenure Track Assistant Professor Olga A. Oxholm, e-mail: olgaa@agro.au.dk (co‑supervisor)

Application deadline is 09 November 2026 23:59 CET.

Preferred starting date is 01 February 2027.

Formalities and salary range

Salary and terms as agreed between the Danish Ministry of Taxation and the Confederation of Professional Unions. You will be employed as an academic staff member at basic salary grades 4–8. As a PhD fellow you will also receive a monthly non‑pensionable allowance.

Aarhus University’s ambition is to be an attractive and inspiring workplace for all and to foster a culture in which each individual has opportunities to thrive, achieve and develop. We view equality and diversity as assets, and we welcome all applicants.