PhD Position - Plant-Microbe-Interactions within the GreenRobust Cluster of Excellence (f/m/d)

PhD Position - Plant-Microbe-Interactions within the GreenRobust Cluster of Excellence (f/m/d)

Deparment of Landscape Ecology and Vegetation Science - EXC GreenRobust

Code: 2026/107

Application deadline: 2026-09-30

The Deparment of Landscape Ecology and Vegetation Science takes a trait-based perspective on biotic interactions, combining experimental and observational approaches to understand and forecast plant responses to environmental change. The position is embedded within the Cluster of Excellence GreenRobust and jointly supervised with the Department of Soil Biology to link root-associated microbiomes to plant reproduction under drought.

Start as soon as possible

Remuneration up to E 13 TV-L

Scope 65 %

Duration through 31.12.2029

Location Stuttgart-Hohenheim

Your tasks

• Planning and conducting experiments in the greenhouse to test how root-associated microbes shape floral attractiveness and reproduction under drought conditions
• Measurements of floral traits and reproductive output in selected plant species, including floral scent analysis, hand-pollination treatments and pollinator preference assays
• Laboratory analyses of root traits, exudates and rhizosphere microbiomes after harvest, including root exudate profiling and amplicon sequencing of rhizosphere microbial communities
• Conducting original research with the aim of a doctoral dissertation, including statistical data analysis, publication of findings in peer-reviewed journals, and presentation of results at national and international Conferences
• Contributing to a literature synthesis on biotic interactions and plant robustness, and participating in the doctoral training and research activities of the GreenRobust Cluster of Excellence

Your profile

• University degree (Master's or Diploma) in biology, ecology, plant sciences, agricultural sciences or a comparable field
• Strong interest in linking above- and belowground plant ecology, and motivation to work at the interface of trait-based ecology, pollination biology and soil microbiology
• Experience with greenhouse or field experiments, laboratory experience in molecular methods or analytical chemistry is an advantage
• Good statistical skills and experience with R, interest in bioinformatic processing of multivariate data like spectroscopic of amplicon sequencing data
• Independent and well-organized working style, reliability during intensive experimental phases, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary teamwork within the Cluster of Excellence
• Fluency in English, both spoken and written

What sets us apart

• Vibrant and innovative working environment on a green campus with everything at close quarters
• Multi-faceted and responsible role with creative freedom
• Secure position
• Very good work/life balance
• Flexible working hours & remote working
• Wide range of opportunities for personal and professional development
• Health support & university sport
• Job ticket & Job bike

Working environment

As a university with a distinct profile, the University of Hohenheim brings together the Faculties of Agricultural Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Business, Economics and Social Sciences. Our green campus with everything at close quarters promotes collaboration and creates an inspiring environment for research, teaching, and work. With us, aspiring minds find a community in which they can grow and develop. Shape a sustainable future with us!

Equal opportunities and diversity are important to us. Your skills and strengths count for us – regardless of age, gender, origin, or religion. We particularly encourage women to apply. We also welcome applications from people with severe disabilities or equivalent; if suitable, we will give them preferential consideration.

Have we sparked your interest?

We look forward to receiving your application through our online portal. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Maximilian Hanusch (maximilian.hanusch@uni-hohenheim.de, +49 711 459-22814) or Prof. Dr. Tessa Camenzind (tessa.camenzind@uni-hohenheim.de, +49 711 459-24065).

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Universität HohenheimSchloss Hohenheim 1, 70599 Stuttgart

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