We are recruiting a highly motivated PhD student to investigate grapevine virus diversity in Israeli indigenous cultivars and European cultivated varieties grown in Israel. The project integrates RT-qPCR/RT-PCR diagnostics, NGS/HTS-based viral diversity analysis, primer development/validation, and shoot tip culture to produce virus-free grapevine propagation material.
Key research components
• Screening 12–14 grapevine viruses in a unique grapevine germplasm collection
• RT-qPCR/RT-PCR diagnostics with sequencing/HTS confirmation where needed
• Variant/phylogenetic analysis of key viruses detected in Israel
• Development and validation of multi-virus PCR/RT-qPCR primer sets/panels
• Shoot tip culture + indexing to generate and maintain virus-free plants
Preferred candidate profile (important):
We strongly prefer candidates with demonstrated, hands-on plant tissue culture experience, supported by evidence such as a peer-reviewed publication, MSc thesis/dissertation work, or post-MSc laboratory experience (e.g., aseptic techniques, contamination control, subculture, micropropagation, acclimatization).
Scholarship: 5,000 NIS/month (increases to 6,000 NIS/month after proposal approval)
To apply: Please email a single PDF (CV + ½–1 page motivation letter + transcripts + 2 referees)
Prof. Elyashiv Drori: shividrori@gmail.com
Dr. Mafatlal M. Kher: mafatlalmkher@gmail.com
Last Date : 2nd February 2026
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