Evolutionary biologist focused on plant-microbe symbiosis to support sustainable ecosystems.

More information about Kimber Zonneveld

Professional experience

Kimber Zonneveld is a biologist focusing on the interactions between soil, plants, and microbes. Kimber has a background in Life Sciences (BSc, Amsterdam University College) and Evolutionary Biology (MSc, Leiden University). During the MSc internships, Kimber researched the complex interactions between cycads and their symbiotic microbiomes, which reside in specialized organs called coralloid roots. Through this work, Kimber gained experience in NGS techniques, biogeographical modelling, and population genetics, while collaborating with non-scientific stakeholders across the Netherlands and Mexico. The foundational research on co-symbiotic microbiomes now serves as the basis for Kimber’s current PhD project, which focuses on soil and microbiome health to support protein crop growth.

Research topic

Kimber Zonneveld works as a PhD candidate in the REAP2SOW project, which focuses on integrating protein crops into Dutch agriculture to support the protein transition.