<p> We have an open, fully funded PhD position on the causes and epidemiology of truffle rot in Australian orchards. The PhD student will be enrolled at the University of Melbourne under the supervision of Niloofar Vaghefi and Camille Truong from the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. </p> <p> The project will elucidate the biotic and abiotic causes of truffle rot across different regions and provide recommendations for improved management, while equipping the industry with diagnostic tools for early and reliable detection in soils. Activities include identifying affected farms and potential experimental sites in collaboration with growers, surveys of fungi, bacteria and oomycetes associated with truffle rot, and assessing the pathogenicity of commonly isolated microorganisms using glasshouse and field trials. </p> <p> <strong>Eligibility criteria:</strong> </p> <ul> <li>Hsc or Msc in biological sciences or a relevant field, experience in conducting both fieldwork and molecular biology work. </li> <li>Demonstrated writing and communication skills in English, including with stakeholders. </li> <li>Background and laboratory skills in mycology or plant pathology, as well as bioinformatics skills, are desirable. </li> <li>The successful candidate will be based in the Parkville campus in Melbourne and will require to travel for field experiments. </li> </ul>