The University of Copenhagen is offering a fully funded, 3-year PhD fellowship focused on enhancing drought resilience in faba beans (Vicia faba L.). As part of the FASTER project, you will investigate how stomatal traits—specifically size and morphology—impact water use, root uptake, and yield stability under water-stressed conditions.
Key Highlights
- Focus: Plant physiology, crop stress adaptation, and sustainable protein production.
- Location: Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences (PLEN), Taastrup Campus, Denmark.
- Benefits: Full salary and benefits under Danish collective agreements, including a research stay abroad.
- Supervision: Led by Professor Fulai Liu and Associate Professor Dorte Bodin Dresbøll.
Candidate Profile
- Holds an MSc degree in plant science, agriculture, or a related field.
- Experienced in statistical analysis (R) and plant-water relations.
- Strong interest in the green transition and climate-resilient agriculture.
Important Dates
- Deadline: 10 January 2026
- Interviews: February 2026
- Start Date: 1 April 2026
To apply, you must submit a motivated letter, CV, and transcripts through the official application portal.
To help you apply for the PhD Fellowship in Stomatal Traits and Drought Resilience in Faba Bean at the University of Copenhagen, here are two templates based on the requirements.
1. Motivated Letter (Statement of Purpose) Template
A “motivated letter” in Denmark is a combination of a cover letter and a research statement. It should be roughly one page.
[Your Name] [Your Address] | [Your Email] | [Your Phone Number]
To: The Selection Committee Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences (PLEN) University of Copenhagen
Subject: Motivated Application for PhD Fellowship in Stomatal Traits and Drought Resilience
Introduction: I am writing to express my strong interest in the 3-year PhD fellowship focused on faba bean drought resilience under the FASTER project. With an MSc in [Your Major, e.g., Plant Science] and a deep commitment to sustainable protein production, I am eager to contribute to Professor Fulai Liu’s research group.
Research Motivation: My interest in this position stems from the urgent need for a “green transition” in climate-resilient agriculture. I am particularly fascinated by how stomatal morphology and size impact water-use efficiency. This PhD offers the perfect opportunity to investigate these plant-water relations to stabilize yields in unpredictable climates.
Relevant Experience: During my Master’s studies, I gained hands-on experience in [Mention a relevant skill, e.g., gas exchange measurements or R programming]. My thesis work involved [Briefly describe a project related to plant physiology or stress], where I developed the statistical analysis skills (using R) required for this role.
Conclusion: The University of Copenhagen’s reputation for excellence in plant science makes it my top choice for doctoral studies. I am confident that my background in [Your Key Skill] and my drive to solve climate challenges will allow me to excel in the FASTER project.
Sincerely, [Your Name]
2. Academic CV Template (Short Version)
[Your Name] [Link to LinkedIn/ORCID] | [Email]
Education
- MSc in [Your Field] | [University Name] | [Graduation Year]
- Thesis Title: [Insert Title]
- Key Skills: Plant physiology, crop stress, and statistical analysis in R.
- BSc in [Your Field] | [University Name] | [Graduation Year]
Research Experience
- Research Assistant / Intern | [Organization] | [Dates]
- Conducted experiments on plant-water relations and root water uptake.
- Managed data collection and performed analysis using [Software].
Technical Skills
- Laboratory: Stomatal trait analysis, biomass sampling, gas exchange systems.
- Software/Statistical: Advanced proficiency in R, Microsoft Excel, and [Other software].
- Languages: English (Fluent), [Other languages].
Honors & Publications
- [Any awards or publications you have, if applicable].
Next Steps
- Tailor the “Relevant Experience” section in the letter to match your actual Master’s project.
- Ensure you have your Transcripts ready to upload along with these files.
- Submit your application before the 10 January 2026 deadline.
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