PhD Position in Density Management: The Excellence Cluster Future Forests at the University of Freiburg invites applications for a part-time (75%) PhD position aimed at exploring stand density management as a silvicultural strategy to adapt forests to drought conditions. This innovative research project seeks to quantify the impact of stand density on tree stress and mortality in various forest types.
PhD Position in Stand Density Management for Forest Adaptation to Drought
Designation
PhD Researcher
Table
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 12 January 2026 |
| Publication Date | 11 December 2025 |
| Start Date | 1 April 2026 |
| Contract Duration | 3.5 years |
| Scope of Work | Part-time (75%) |
| Reference ID | 00004718 |
Research Area
Forest ecology and silviculture focused on drought-related stress and mortality in trees, utilizing dendroecology, remote sensing, and microclimate ecology.
Location
University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
Eligibility/Qualification
- Completed M.Sc. or equivalent in forest sciences, environmental sciences, biology, or related fields.
- Proven experience in studying climate extremes’ impacts on forests.
- Strong skills in field and lab work, handling large datasets, and statistics (preferably in R).
- Experience in dendroecology and remote sensing is advantageous.
- Proficient in written and spoken English; German skills are a plus.
- Successful completion of a research project demonstrated by an excellent master’s thesis.
- Experience in scientific writing is beneficial.
Job Description
- Conduct independent scientific research related to forest ecology and silviculture.
- Analyze tree mortality and stress through forest inventories, remote sensing, tree ring analysis, and stable isotope analysis.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary and international research teams.
- Participate in a structured doctoral program, contributing to seminars.
- Write progress reports and scientific publications, presenting findings at national and international conferences.
- Engage in cluster activities, workshops, and outreach events.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications including:
- Curriculum Vitae (with publication list, if applicable).
- Cover letter outlining motivation for the position and relevant experience (up to 1,500 words).
- Certificates/transcripts of university degrees with grades (BA and MA).
- Summary of the master’s thesis (up to 1,000 words).
- Suggestions for two referees with contact details.
Upload the CV separately and all other documents as a single PDF to the application portal of the University of Freiburg by 12 January 2026.
For questions, contact:
- Prof. Dr. Jürgen Bauhus: juergen.bauhus@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de
- Dr. Florian Schnabel: florian.schnabel@waldbau.uni-freiburg.de
Last Date to Apply
12 January 2026
