Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) Root ecology, Ecophysiology, Root exudation

Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) Root ecology, Ecophysiology, Root exudation

NEU

Teilzeit

Forschung und Lehre

Sonstiges

The Chair of Ecosystem Physiology ( in the Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources of the University of Freiburg is looking for (m/w/d) Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) Root ecology, Ecophysiology, Root exudation

Bewerbungsfrist: 31. Oktober 2026

Veröffentlichungsdatum: 14. September 2026

Eintrittstermin: 1. Januar 2027

Arbeitsumfang: Part-time position (65 %)

Kennziffer: 00005179

Beschreibung

With start date 1st January 2027 for a fixed-term position of 3+1 years. In the DFG research unit FOR 5315 “FOREST FLOOR: Functioning, Dynamics, and Vulnerability in a Changing World”, the Chair of Ecosystem Physiology will investigate the impact of soil drought on the compound specific root exudation and root development patterns of three temperate tree species in the Forest Floor and mineral soil. The project is embedded in the research unit Forest Floor ( ), which has the overarching aim to analyze the causal links between controls, properties and ecosystem services of Forest Floors in a changing climate. Project partners are distributed over Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Denmark. Regular project meetings will ensure close collaboration and exchange within the research unit.

Your task:

Within FOREST FLOOR you will regularly sample compound-specific root exudates in three temperate forest species with a focus on drought and recovery effects in the Forest Floor. These analyses will be complemented by minirhizotron installations for root development observations, ultimately allowing an upscaling of total root exudation fluxes to the Forest Floor. A special focus will be set on European beech, which will be drought-stressed with rain-out shelters to study the effects of drought in detail. The project is closely cooperating to assess the effect on microbial communities and mycorrhiza in the Forest Floor. To assess the ecophysiological response of the studied trees to drought, sap flow sensors and point dendrometers will be installed in the respective trees. Finally, you will study the impact of drought on litter derived N dispersal with stable 15N isotopes.

Your qualifications and contributions

You hold a Masters degree in Environmental Sciences, Geoecology, Biology or related fields

Excellent background in plant physiology, including root ecology, nutrient cycling and stable isotopes

Experience with GC-MS, minirhizotrons, sap flow and dendrometry is a plus

A high degree of autonomy, responsibility, flexibility, team spirit and organizational skills

Excellent English skills

Great enthusiasm for field and lab work

Great enthusiasm for working in a large interdisciplinary project and interest in collaborative research

Drivers license (class B) is required

We offer a salary according to TV-L E13 (65%) and participation in an exciting, interdisciplinary scientific project at the interface of ecophysiology and soil ecology in in a very dynamic and interactive team with collaborative culture. You will work in well-connected groups with strong third-party funding in Freiburg in close cooperation with other scientists involved in the project. You will be able to develop your own research ideas, but also find support to qualify for a scientific career. The faculty offers the possibility to graduate in a formal PhD-program ( ). Women are explicitly encouraged to apply.

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