By scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com 
Are you fascinated by the complex interactions between plants, microbes, and nematodes? Do you have a passion for molecular biology, plant pathology, or biochemistry? Then the PhD in Molecular Nematode Interactions at University of Florida may be your perfect next step!
The newly formed Haarith Lab, led by Dr. Deepak Haarith, is now recruiting a highly motivated PhD student to join an exciting new research program within the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida, Gainesville, starting in Summer 2026.
๐ฏ Focus Keyword: PhD in Molecular Nematode Interactions at University of Florida
This opportunity is centered around the molecular basis of plant-nematode-microbe interactions, with a strong emphasis on sustainable agricultural solutions. The PhD in Molecular Nematode Interactions at University of Florida is a fully funded position, providing not only academic training but also hands-on research experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and plant biotechnology.
๐งช About Haarith Lab โ Where Plants, Microbes, and Nematodes Collide
The Haarith Lab, launching at the University of Florida in August 2025, is directed by Dr. Deepak Haarith, a plant pathologist with deep expertise in nematology and fungal biology. Dr. Haarith completed his PhD in Plant Pathology from the University of Minnesota and is currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of WisconsinโMadison. His work has extensively focused on soybean cyst nematode (SCN), biocontrol mechanisms, and host resistance.
Now shifting to subtropical crops, the Haarith Lab will investigate:
- The phytobiomes of various plant-nematode pathosystems
- Biotic and abiotic factors affecting host resistance
- Impacts of chemical treatments and cultural practices on microbial communities
- Novel biocontrol and molecular techniques for sustainable nematode management
๐ What Will You Research?
As a PhD student in the Haarith Lab, you will help answer questions like:
- How do microbial communities influence nematode infestation in Floridian crops?
- What molecular tools can be used to dissect nematode virulence and plant resistance?
- How can in vitro, in silico, and in vivo techniques be integrated for effective nematode control?
This position offers the chance to work in lab, greenhouse, and computational settings using cutting-edge techniques such as:
- PCR, RT-qPCR, ELISA, Western blot
- Genomic data analysis and cloning
- Plant-nematode assays and growth chamber experiments
๐ Position Details
- ๐ซ University: University of Florida, Department of Entomology and Nematology
- ๐งฌ Position: Graduate Research Assistant โ Ph.D. in Molecular Nematode Interactions
- ๐ฐ Funding: Fully funded (tuition + stipend)
- ๐ Start Date: Summer 2026
- ๐๏ธ Deadline: September 30, 2025
- ๐ง Application Email: deepakrajendran@ufl.edu
- ๐ Lab Website: deepakhaarith.com
โ Who Should Apply?
Minimum Qualifications:
- A research-based Masterโs degree in:
- Molecular Biology
- Plant Pathology
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Nematology or related fields
- A strong record of peer-reviewed publication
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience in molecular lab techniques
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Willingness to work in greenhouse/lab and perform computational analyses
๐ Required Application Materials
Email the following documents to deepakrajendran@ufl.edu by September 30, 2025 at 4:00 PM EST:
- ๐ 3-page Curriculum Vitae with publication list
- ๐ Unofficial transcripts for all degrees
- ๐ 1-page Personal Statement (why you fit the lab)
- ๐งช 1-page Research Statement (project ideas relevant to Haarith Lab)
- ๐ TOEFL/IELTS scores (for international students; optional but preferred)
- ๐ฅ Contact information for 3 referees
๐ Shortlisted applicants will be invited for online interviews by October 31, 2025.
๐ Why Choose the University of Florida?
The University of Florida (UF) is one of the most prestigious public research universities in the U.S., consistently ranked in the Top 5 Public Universities (U.S. News & World Report). Located in Gainesville, UF offers world-class infrastructure for life sciences, plant pathology, nematology, and biotechnology.
Benefits of joining UF:
- ๐ฑ Collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment
- ๐งฌ Access to cutting-edge molecular biology and greenhouse facilities
- ๐ฟ Field trials with leading agricultural researchers
- ๐ A multicultural campus with international student support
UFโs Department of Entomology and Nematology is globally recognized for its nematode and insect research, providing an excellent platform for doctoral training.
๐ Important Links
- ๐ฑ Entomology and Nematology Graduate Program
- ๐ Graduate Student Funding Opportunities
- ๐งช Haarith Lab Details
- โ Scholarships With Aakash
๐ง Need assistance with your research proposal, personal statement, or SOP?
Contact: scholarshipswithaakash@gmail.com
๐ Why Apply for the PhD in Molecular Nematode Interactions at University of Florida?
โ๏ธ Be part of a new, innovative lab led by an expert in plant-nematode-microbe interactions
โ๏ธ Get full funding and hands-on training in molecular biology, bioinformatics, and plant pathology
โ๏ธ Work on real-world problems impacting global agriculture and sustainability
โ๏ธ Access world-class resources and collaborative research culture at UF
โ๏ธ Build a strong academic and professional profile in a high-impact research field
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Apply now to the PhD in Molecular Nematode Interactions at University of Florida and become part of a game-changing scientific mission!