This is how you can contribute

• Conduct field and greenhouse experiments on the transmission of Potato virus Y (PVY) and Potato leafroll virus (PLRV)
• Analyse varietal susceptibility to potato viruses using certification datasets and experimental data
• Evaluate agroecological strategies to reduce virus spread, including companion plants, biodiversity enhancement and straw mulching
• Assess vector management strategies combining mineral or vegetable oils, mulching and targeted insecticide applications
• Contribute to the economic and agronomic evaluation of integrated virus management strategies
• Disseminate results through scientific publications, technical reports and presentations to stakeholders and the agricultural sector

This makes you unique

• Master's degree in plant pathology, plant protection, agronomy, entomology, plant sciences or a related discipline
• Strong interest in plant virology, agroecology and sustainable crop protection
• Experience in field experimentation, data analysis or laboratory techniques (e.g. ELISA, PCR) is an advantage
• Ability to work independently while collaborating in a multidisciplinary research team
• Good organizational and communication skills
• Very good knowledge of two official Swiss languages and spoken and written English

In a nutshell

This PhD position is part of the ViKaan project (Viren im Kartoffelanbau / Les virus dans la culture de la pomme de terre), which aims to develop integrated strategies to control the spread of Potato virus Y (PVY) and Potato leafroll virus (PLRV) in Swiss seed potato production. The project investigates varietal susceptibility to viruses, evaluates agroecological approaches to increase biodiversity (such as companion plants), and tests innovative vector management strategies including straw mulching and oil applications. The project also integrates economic analyses to identify strategies that are both effective and economically viable for farmers. The ultimate goal is to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of Swiss seed potato production under increasing virus pressure and climate change. The project is funded by the Swiss Federal Office for Agriculture (FOAG).

Our benefits

• Working for Switzerland We are committed to the successful Swiss model and work for the public good.
• Embracing diversity Thanks to equal opportunities, we draw on our expertise and contribute different perspectives.
• Staying healthy at work We support and advise our employees in the area of physical and mental health.

Good food, healthy environment

Agroscope is the Swiss federal centre of excellence for research in the agriculture and food sector. Its researchers work at a number of sites in Switzerland. Headquartered in Bern-Liebefeld (as of 2026: Posieux), Agroscope is attached to the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research EAER.

Additional information

The 'Cultivation Techniques and Varieties in Arable Farming' Research Group is dedicated to researching sustainable production techniques and new climate-change-adapted varieties for the main field-crop species cultivated according to various production techniques (integrated production, quality labels or organic farming). To accomplish its mission, it is active in testing, mainly in the field, from Lake Geneva to East Switzerland.

Questions about the position

Dupuis Brice Team leader +41 58 46 04748