MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship on Agroecology

Overview

The University of Verona – Department of Biotechnology invites scholars to present expressions of interest in applying jointly with Prof. Matteo Dainese for a Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship on Agroecology.

Proposed research topics focus on understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on agroecosystems through biodiversity-based Nature‑based Solutions (NbS). Projects may investigate how climate stressors (e.g., warming, drought, and extreme events) affect ecosystem services such as pollination, pest control, and soil functioning, and how these impacts can be buffered by diversified farming systems. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of multi‑trophic biodiversity in enhancing resilience and stability of crop production under changing environmental conditions. The fellow will contribute to advancing mechanistic understanding and scalable solutions for climate‑resilient agriculture.

Hosting research group / Supervisor

The host research group at the Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona, conducts interdisciplinary research on plant sciences, agroecology, biodiversity, and ecosystem functioning within agricultural systems. The Department has strong expertise in plant physiology, soil biology, environmental biotechnology, and crop productivity, with active involvement in national and European research projects.

Prof. Matteo Dainese’s research focuses on the role of biodiversity in supporting ecosystem services in agroecosystems, particularly pollination and biological pest control, and on how global change drivers (e.g., climate warming, land‑use intensification) affect these processes. The group combines field experiments, landscape ecology, and quantitative modelling, and collaborates internationally across European research networks.

Selected candidates will be offered both academic and administrative support from the Centre / Department and the University of Verona Grant Office to assist with proposal preparation.

Eligibility

• To have a PhD at the call deadline (September 9, 2026)
• Up to 8 years research experience after PhD
• Citizens of an EU State or of an Associated Country or long‑term resident in Europe (only for Global Fellowship)
• Not to have resided or carried the main activity in Italy for more than 12 months in the 36 months before call deadline (European Fellowship)
• Not to have resided or carried the main activity in the host country in the third country for more than 12 months in the 36 months before call deadline (Global Fellowship)
• Fluent in English; excellent teamwork attitude, organizational skills, and ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment
• A short CV including personal data (name, date of birth, present position, and name of a referee who has agreed to send a reference letter)