PhD Position in Environmental Metagenomics and Antimicrobial Resistance

Other Researcher Profile: First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions: PhD Positions Application Deadline: 11 Dec 2026 - 00:00 (Europe/Riga) Country: Latvia Type of Contract: Temporary Job Status: Full-time Hours Per Week: 40 Offer Starting Date: 1 Jan 2027 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? European Union / Next Generation EU Reference Number: 1.1.1.5/2/24/A/002 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No Offer Description 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 in environmental metagenomics and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) surveillance. The successful candidate will investigate microbial communities and antimicrobial resistance in wastewater and other environmental ecosystems. The research will use DNA sequencing, bioinformatics, and environmental data to better understand how antimicrobial resistance is distributed and potentially spreads through the environment. What Will You Do? Study microbial communities in wastewater and environmental samples. Investigate antimicrobial resistance genes in environmental ecosystems. Analyze metagenomic sequencing datasets. Explore how microbial communities and resistance patterns vary across locations and over time. Develop laboratory and bioinformatics skills through research training. Publish scientific findings, attend conferences, and complete a PhD thesis. Who Can Apply? We welcome applicants who have: A Master's degree in Microbiology, Biology, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Bioinformatics, Chemistry, Public Health, or a related discipline. An interest in microbiomes, microbial genomics, or antimicrobial resistance. Scientific curiosity, enthusiasm for research, and a willingness to learn new techniques. Good analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to new research challenges. Motivation to develop laboratory, bioinformatics, and data analysis skills. Good written and spoken English. The ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment. 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, Environment – 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 Where to apply E-mail: anda.baumane@niri.lv Requirements Research Field: Biological sciences » Other Education Level: Master Degree or equivalent Languages: ENGLISH Additional Information Additional comments About NIRI and EchoHEALTH The EchoHEALTH ERA Chair project aims to strengthen One Health informatics research by integrating genomics, microbiome science, computational biology, and data science into the study of human, animal, and environmental health. 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. Website for additional job details: https://niri.lv/en/about-niri/vacancies/ Work Location(s) Number of offers available: 1 Company/Institute: National Institute of Research and Innovation (NIRI) Country: Latvia City: Riga Postal Code: LV-1067 Street: Ratsupites street 1 Contact City: Riga Website: https://niri.lv/en/home/ Street: Aizkraukles 21 Postal Code: LV-1006