PhD position in Nutritional Crop Physiology within the GreenRobust Cluster of Excellence (f/m/d)

Institute of Crop Science – Nutritional Crop Physiology

Code: 2026/135

Application deadline: 2026-10-31

Within the GreenRobust Cluster of Excellence, a PhD position in molecular crop physiology shared between the group of Benjamin Neuhäuser (University of Hohenheim) and Sabine Kind (Julius Kuehn-Institute, Dossenheim) is available for the fixed term of three years starting on 01.01.2027. The successful candidate will join the research group of Benjamin Neuhäuser and closely collaborate with Sabine Kind. The project is part of the GreenRobust Cluster of Excellence and therefore provides access to this interdisciplinary research network.
Research
Mycorrhizal symbiosis plays a crucial role in improving plant tolerance to nutrient and water limitation. In addition, mycorrhizal fungi also contribute to plant tolerance against drought stress, improving water status, increasing biomass accumulation, and enhancing physiological performance under water deficit conditions. In your project you will identify transport proteins involved in the establishment and maintenance of plant–mycorrhizal interactions and determine how these proteins influence symbiosis and mycorrhiza-induced plant robustness against water and nutrient stress in tomato, grapevine and apple.

Start 01.01.2027

Remuneration up to E13 TV-L

Scope 65 %

Duration fixed-term until 31 December 2029

Location Stuttgart-Hohenheim

Your tasks

• Planning and conducting greenhouse and field experiments on mycorrhizal induced plant tolerance.
• Analysis of growth parameters, nutrient contents and mycorrhization efficiencies
• Transcriptomic and phospho-proteomic analysis of mycorrhized vs. non-mycorrhized plants
• Molecular cloning and analysis of transport proteins as well as their targeted knockout by CRISPR/Cas9
• Completion of all other research tasks related to the project, including participation in project meetings and presentations at national and international conferences
• Final drafting of project reports and scientific publications based on the research findings

Your profile

• University degree (Master’s or Diploma) in biology, plant sciences, agricultural sciences or a comparable field
• A general interest in plant transport physiology and plant – microbe interactions
• Experience with greenhouse or field experiments, laboratory experience in molecular methods or analytical chemistry
• Independent and thorough teamwork ability
• Willingness and flexibility to alternate between working in Hohenheim and at the JKI
• Good English skills (oral 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 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. Benjamin Neuhäuser, Group Leader Molecular Biology, by phone on +49 711 459 22777.

Online application