Doctoral Researcher (m/w/d)

NEW

Part-time

Research and Instruction

The Professorship of Forest Genetics seeks to hire a Doctoral Researcher (m/w/d)

Application deadline: 20. January 2026
Publication date: 18. December 2025
Start-date: 1. April 2026
Scope of work: Part-time position (65 %)
Id no.: 00004764

Description

The position is embedded in the project “BeGenDiv – A multispecies genetic diversity survey for the Biodiversity Exploratories” and will focus on characterizing the genetic diversity of tree and shrub species in the forest plots of the Biodiversity Exploratories (https://www.biodiversity-exploratories.de/en/). The PhD project will investigate the genetic diversity of around 30 tree and shrub species in landscapes characterized by diverse combinations of forest management intensity and environmental heterogeneity. The PhD project will focus on a comparative analysis among species, while multi-species indices will be developed by a postdoctoral researcher in the same project.

This is a collaborative project involving researchers from the University of Freiburg (Prof. Dr. Katrin Heer & Dr. Jill Sekely), the University of Marburg (Prof. Dr. Lars Opgenoorth), and UFZ Halle (Dr. Walter Durka). Since the project is embedded in the Biodiversity Exploratories, there will be cooperation and scientific exchange with many researchers from across Germany.

Your Tasks

Independent scientific research in the field of forest ecology and forest genetics
Collection of samples for genetic characterization in 150 plots in the three Biodiversity Exploratories (https://www.biodiversity-exploratories.de/en/regions/overview/)
Lab work, specifically DNA extractions & library preparation for some species (most samples will be handled by external providers)
Bioinformatic data analysis of whole genome and ddRAD data for the characterization of genetic diversity
Data analysis in R
Collaboration with interdisciplinary and international research teams
Contribution to scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences
Contribution to regular seminars (in the working group and in the BE community)

Your Profile

Completed university degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in Biology, Forest Science, or a related field
Experience in population genetics/genomics
Good skills in laboratory work and statistical analysis
Experience with field work and the ability to work under demanding field conditions
Experience in bioinformatic analysis and forest ecology or willingness to learn about both
Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
Proficiency in written and spoken English; German is an asset
Experience in scientific writing (publications) is an advantage

We Offer

An exciting collaborative project with researchers at four German research institutions (Universities in Freiburg, Marburg, and Tübingen, and the UFZ in Halle)
Support and supervision for your scientific and career development
A diverse, collaborative, and inclusive research community, including initial University onboarding support
Involvement in the Biodiversity Exploratories Research Community (including annual meetings with 100+ researchers from all over Germany)
Opportunities for further training, attendance at conferences, and professional networking
Flexible working hours and support with work-life balance
Salary according to TV-L 13
A 3-year contract for PhD research

Please upload your application, including the following documents to the University portal (link below)

Cover letter with research interests
CV and academic certificates
Example of a scientific work (English preferred)
Contact details of at least two references

The position is limited to 3 years The salary will be determined in accordance with TVL13.

Application

Please send your application in English including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number 00004764, by 20. January 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:

jessica.sun@forgen.uni-freiburg.de

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Katrin Heer on the phone number +49 761 017664604232 or E-Mail katrin.heer@forgen.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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