Duration: 3 years (full-time) Remuneration: 14 EUR gross per hour Application Deadline: December 11, 2026 About the Position The One
Health Informatics Group at NIRI invites applications for a fully funded PhD position focusing on animal gut microbiomes, metagenomics, and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The successful candidate will investigate microbial communities in livestock and agricultural systems, with particular interest in understanding how antimicrobial resistance develops and spreads. The research will combine microbiology, DNA sequencing, bioinformatics, and microbial ecology. What Will You Do? Study microbial communities in animal gut microbiomes. Investigate antimicrobial resistance genes and their distribution. Analyze DNA sequencing and metagenomic datasets. Learn laboratory and computational methods for microbiome research. Publish research findings and present at scientific conferences. Complete a PhD thesis as part of an international research team. Who Can Apply? We welcome applicants who have: A Master's degree in Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Agriculture, Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Food Science, or a related discipline. A strong interest in animal microbiomes, gut microbiology, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), microbial ecology, or animal health . Scientific curiosity, enthusiasm for research, and a willingness to learn new techniques. Good analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. Motivation to develop laboratory, metagenomics, bioinformatics, and data analysis skills. Good written and spoken English. The ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research team. Previous experience in bioinformatics is an advantage but is not required. We particularly encourage applicants who demonstrate scientific curiosity, enthusiasm, and strong potential to develop as independent researchers. What We Offer Fully funded PhD position within the EchoHEALTH ERA Chair project in Riga, Latvia. Research training in metagenomics, microbiome science, antimicrobial resistance, bioinformatics, and relevant laboratory techniques. Access to advanced research facilities, including sequencing technologies and high-performance computing resources. Mentorship and supervision to develop scientific skills, critical thinking, and independent research capabilities. International collaboration opportunities with interdisciplinary researchers and research institutions. Professional development through scientific publications, conferences, workshops, and specialized training. Supportive and international research environment that encourages scientific curiosity, continuous learning, and career development. How to Apply Please submit the following documents in English: CV – Include your education, research experience, and relevant skills. Motivation letter (maximum 1 page) – Briefly explain your research interests and why you want to join this PhD project. Academic documents – Copies of your Bachelor's and Master's certificates and transcripts, or proof of expected graduation. Send your application to: anda.baumane@niri.lv Email subject: PhD Application, Animal – EchoHEALTH Deadline: 11 December 2026 Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an online interview. Final appointment is subject to eligibility verification, institutional recruitment procedures, and admission to the relevant doctoral programme at the University of Latvia. Recruitment Committee The Recruitment Committee will consist of the following members: Dr. Alvis Brazma – ERA Chair Holder, NIRI Prof. Jānis Kloviņš – Project Manager, NIRI Dr. Robin B. Guevarra – Senior Researcher, NIRI Dr. Zane Kalnina – Senior Researcher, NIRI Dr. Ilze Elbere – Senior Researcher, NIRI Elīna Zeltkalne-Ratniece – Human Resources Department, NIRI Additional Information The One Health Informatics Group develops and applies genomic and computational approaches to understand microbial ecosystems, antimicrobial resistance, and their relevance to public health and environmental sustainability. Learn more about NIRI: https://niri.lv/en/home/ Website for additional job details: https://niri.lv/en/about-niri/vacancies/
