Multiomic approach to understand and model the behaviours of Sideroxylon spinosum to modulate hydric and biotic stresses

Sideroxylon spinosum, endemic to southwestern Morocco, exhibits unique adaptations to its environment driven by soil properties, microbiome interactions, genetic and physiological traits, and dynamic phytochemical profiles. While physiological responses to stress are well documented, molecular mechanisms particularly gene-level determinants of tolerance to hydric and thermal stress-remain poorly understood. Moreover, integrated multiomics data linking genomics, metabolite variation, and stress tolerance are largely lacking.

This research aims to correlate stress resistance across plant tissues with gene-level expression profiles. The objectives include identifying and characterizing key stress-related genes, developing an S. spinosum cell culture system, and validating a chemical-genetic approach to study drought and thermal stress tolerance in cultured cells.

Research Environment

Candidates are expected to carry out their research full-time within the structures of the Euromed University of Fes.

PhD Student’s Responsibilities

• Perform advanced bioinformatics analysis: genome mining and functional genomic analysis from genomic and transcriptomic data.
• Construct gene libraries from S. spinosum.
• Perform in vitro culture from tissues of S. spinosum.
• Perform microbiomic analysis and study plant-microbe interactions.

Candidate Profile

• Master’s degree in Plant Biotechnology and/or Plant Microbiology Molecular Biology, or equivalent.
• Relevant knowledge in Bio- and Chem-informatics.

The application file must include the following documents:

• CV with photo
• Cover letter
• Copy of diplomas
• Copy of academic transcripts
• Copy of CIN/Passport

Submission of the Application File

The application file must be sent to the Doctoral Studies Center (CEDoc) of the Euro-Mediterranean University of Fes by email no later than February 14, 2026 to the following address:
Euromed-CEDoc@ueuromed.org

For More Information

Administrative Affairs Officer of the CEDoc:
Ms. Boutaina Jai Mansouri – b.jai-mansouri@emadu.ueuromed.org

Director of Research and of the CEDoc:
Prof. Abdelghafour Marfak – a.marfak@euromed.org

Thesis Supervisor

Pr. Jaouad ANISSI – j.anissi@ueuromed.org