PhD Position: Linking Above-Ground Plant Function to Root Dynamics at Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany

Summary

Forschungszentrum Jülich is offering a PhD position for a motivated researcher to investigate the relationship between root dynamics and above-ground physiological traits. The project involves using advanced imaging techniques and field experiments to understand carbon allocation and plant development.

Designation

PhD Student / Doctoral Researcher

Research Area

The research focuses on the intersection of plant physiology, root biology, phenotyping, sensing, imaging, data analysis, and plant modelling within the interdisciplinary PhenoRob research environment.

Location

Jülich, Germany

Eligibility/Qualification

• Academic Degree: An excellent Master’s degree in plant sciences, biology, agricultural sciences, crop science, environmental sciences, bioengineering, or a related discipline.
• Language Skills: Very good command of written and spoken English (at least B2 level according to the CEFR).
• Technical Skills: Experience in quantitative data analysis and statistics. Familiarity with R, Python, or similar tools is advantageous.
• Experience: Scientific curiosity and an interest in combining controlled experiments with field-based research. Experience with photosynthesis measurements, MRI, PET, or remote sensing is a plus but not required.

Scholarship Description

The aim of this PhD project is to relate root dynamics to above-ground physiological and phenotypical measures. The successful candidate will investigate how photosynthesis, carbon allocation, shoot development, and root growth are connected over time and how these relationships respond to environmental conditions.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and conducting plant experiments under controlled and field conditions.
• Using advanced non-invasive imaging such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) to track root development.
• Quantifying temporal changes in plant structure and function.
• Developing quantitative approaches to relate root development and stress responses to above-ground measurements.
• Contributing data to functional-structural plant models.
• Presenting findings at international conferences and publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

The position offers 30 days of annual leave, flexible working hours, and access to the JuDocS training and networking program for doctoral candidates.

How to Apply

Candidates should submit their application through the Forschungszentrum Jülich recruitment portal. The application should include relevant academic certificates and evidence of English language proficiency.

Apply Link: Official Recruitment Portal

Last Date for Apply

The position is open until filled, with a start date as soon as possible. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.