15 Open PhD Positions: The Cluster of Excellence TERRA – Terrestrial Geo-Biosphere Interactions in a Changing World invites applications for 15 fully funded PhD (and selected Doctoral/Postdoctoral) positions. TERRA is a newly funded interdisciplinary research initiative involving the University of Tübingen, University of Hohenheim, and the Senckenberg Society for Nature Research (Frankfurt).
The program focuses on understanding interactions between the living and non-living Earth system across spatial and temporal scales, from microorganisms to global systems, and from the geological past to the future. The program officially starts on January 1, 2026, with PhD positions commencing on April 1, 2026, for a duration of 3.5 years.
15 Open PhD Positions – Cluster of Excellence TERRA (Fully Funded PhD, Germany)
Designation
- Doctoral Researcher (PhD)
- Selected Doctoral / Postdoctoral Researcher positions
- Salary scale: E 13 TV-L or TV-H (65–100%)
Research Area
- Geo-Biosphere Interactions
- Geosciences, Biology, Environmental Sciences
- Ecology, Evolutionary Biology, Hydrology
- Biogeochemistry, Geomicrobiology
- Climate & Earth System Science
- Vegetation and Ecosystem Modelling
- Biodiversity, Invasive Species, River Dynamics
- Data Science, GIS, Quantitative & Computational Modelling
Location
- University of Tübingen, Germany
- University of Hohenheim, Germany
- Senckenberg Society for Nature Research, Frankfurt, Germany
(Fieldwork may include locations such as South Africa and alpine regions)
Eligibility / Qualification
- Completed MSc (or equivalent) in natural sciences, geosciences, life sciences, environmental sciences, or computer sciences (depending on the project)
- Strong academic background relevant to the selected Focus Unit Project (FUN)
- Experience in fieldwork, laboratory methods, modelling, GIS, programming, or data analysis (project-dependent)
- Proficiency in English (minimum B1 level)
- Ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams
- German language skills are welcome but not mandatory
Job Description
Selected candidates will:
- Conduct original doctoral (or postdoctoral) research within one of five Focus Unit Projects (FUNs)
- Participate in interdisciplinary research across geology, biology, and computational sciences
- Perform fieldwork, laboratory analysis, modelling, or data-driven research depending on the project
- Contribute to publications, conferences, and collaborative research activities
- Join the Graduate School of Terrestrial Geo-Biosphere Interactions, receiving structured supervision via a Thesis Advisory Committee (TAC) and tailored professional training
How to Apply
Applicants must submit a single PDF (max. 10 MB) containing:
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact details of two referees
- Academic certificates and transcripts
Submission Email:
📧 bewerbung@geo.uni-tuebingen.de
Email Subject Format:Application: Your Name [FUNXX_X]
🔹 Multiple applications are allowed but require separate submissions for each position.
🔹 Only complete applications will be considered.
🔹 By applying, candidates agree that their data may be shared among participating institutions for recruitment purposes.
Last Date for Apply
🗓 January 26, 2026
(or until the positions are filled)
