PhD Researcher in the field of Environmental Planning (f/m/d/x) at the Excellence Cluster Future Forests

<2 weeks left

Part-time

Research and Instruction

The Excellence Cluster Future Forests at the University of Freiburg invites applications for a PhD position in the field of environmental planning. PhD Researcher in the field of Environmental Planning (f/m/d/x) at the Excellence Cluster Future Forests

Application deadline: 12. January 2026
Publication date: 12. December 2025
Start-date: 1. April 2026
Scope of work: Part-time position (75 %)
Id no.: 00004736

Description

The Excellence Cluster Future Forests at the University of Freiburg invites applications for a PhD position in the field of environmental planning. The PhD project SES-planning uses the example of wind energy expansion in forests to investigate how spatial and environmental planning can contribute to understanding forests as social-ecological systems (SES). This refers to both, the theoretical and application-oriented level of planning. In addition to conceptual work, a case study analysis will be conducted in the Black Forest. In collaboration with other scientists from the cluster, work is being done on the interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary conceptualisation of forests as novel SES.

The Excellence Cluster Future Forests at the University of Freiburg is an interdisciplinary research center dedicated to questions of adaptation and transformation of forests and their societal use in the face of global change. Future-oriented research on the complex interactions between forests and society is conducted here with outstanding international visibility, supported by the German Research Foundation. Future Forests brings together more than 50 researchers from four faculties as well as non-university partner institutions.

Your Tasks

Independent scientific research in the field of environmental planning (in particular, integration of (environmental) planning categories, instruments and methods into SES research, conducting a case study on wind energy in forests)
Collaboration with interdisciplinary and international research teams
Participation in a structured doctoral program, contribution to regular seminars, and progress reports
Contribution to scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences
Active involvement in and contributions to cluster activities (in particular collaboration within the theme “Multi- and interdisciplinary conceptualisation of novel SESs”), workshops, and outreach events
Active participation in the activities of the Chair of Environmental Planning and Transformation (regular meetings, closed meetings, colloquiums, etc.)

Your Profile

Completed university degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in a subject related to environmental planning (e.g., environmental or landscape planning, landscape architecture, spatial planning, landscape ecology) or related subjects
Very good knowledge of the German planning system, methods, and instruments of spatial and environmental planning
Keen interest in planning theory and research on SES
Good knowledge of qualitative social research methods
Experience in integrating interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary knowledge
Ability to work independently and collaborate in interdisciplinary teams
Proficient written and spoken German and English
Experience in scientific writing (publications) is an advantage

We Offer

An exciting interdisciplinary environment within an internationally renowned researchers at a newly established Excellence Cluster
Structured support and supervision for your scientific and career development
A diverse, collaborative, and inclusive research community, including initial University and cluster-specific onboarding support
Opportunities for further education, attendance at conferences, and professional networking
Flexible working hours and support with work-life balance
Salary according to TV-L 13
A financial budget for project-specific expenses as well as for career development activities

The University of Freiburg is dedicated to the principles of equal opportunity and diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social background, religion/belief, disability, age, or sexual orientation.

Application

Please upload your application (including cover letter, CV, relevant certificates/transcripts, and, if applicable, publication list) by 12.01.2026 to the application portal

The position is limited to 30. September 2029. The salary will be determined in accordance with TV-L E13.

Application

Please send your application including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00004736, by 12. January 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

 
via the University of Freiburg application portal

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Tanja Mölders on the phone number +49 761 203-8678 or E-Mail tanja.moelders@upt.uni-freiburg.de.

Apply now

Full-time positions may generally be split up into two or more part-time positions, provided that there are no formal or legal barriers. Candidates are selected in accordance with the provisions of the AGG (Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz - German General Equal Treatment Act).
Applicants with disabilities (Schwerbehinderte Menschen) will be given preferential consideration in case of equal qualification.
The department offering the position is liable for the content of this job posting. Textual errors do not constitute a basis for any claims or rights. The relevant human resources department has sole responsibility for all legal transactions made within the context of the selection and hiring process.
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