Research Associate / PhD Student Position: The Faculty of Environmental Sciences at TUD Dresden University of Technology invites applications for a Research Associate / PhD Student position in the Department of Forest Sciences. This opportunity focuses on a DFG-funded project that examines the impacts of increasing aridity on soil organic matter stabilization.
Designation
Research Associate / PhD Student (m/f/x)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Vacancy ID | 12303 |
| Salary Group | E 13 TV-L |
| Employment Duration | Initially limited until December 31, 2027 with the option of extension to three years |
| Full-time Equivalent | 65% of a full-time position |
| Start Date | January 1, 2026 |
Research Area
The project focuses on the differential response of above- and belowground litter decomposition to increasing aridity, exploring consequences for soil organic matter stabilization.
Location
Dresden, Germany, with fieldwork in Spain.
Eligibility/Qualification
- University degree (Master or equivalent) in earth or natural sciences (e.g., Soil Sciences, Earth Sciences, Biogeochemistry, Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Biology)
- Strong knowledge in the dynamics of organic matter in natural systems
- Experience in field and lab work, including biogeochemical analyses
- Valid driving license
- Excellent spoken and written English skills
- Strong communication skills
- Willingness to collaborate with global partners
Description
The position involves a research project that studies how increasing aridity affects the decomposition of litter and soil organic matter stabilization. The successful candidate will apply 13C-labelled litter in field experiments along a precipitation gradient in Spain and will undertake laboratory experiments to complement the fieldwork. The position will provide the candidate with the opportunity for further academic qualification (PhD).
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a detailed application, including:
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Transcript of records for the master’s program
- Summary of the master’s thesis (if completed)
- Contact information for two references (affiliation, telephone, e-mail)
Applications can be sent to:
TU Dresden
Professur für Bodenressourcen und Landnutzung
Herrn Prof. Karsten Kalbitz
Helmholtzstr. 10
01069 Dresden, Germany
Alternatively, applications can be submitted via the TUD SecureMail Portal: TUD SecureMail Portal.
All documents should be combined into a single PDF file. Please submit copies only, as applications will not be returned.
Last Date for Application
October 10, 2025 (the stamped arrival date of the university central mail service or the time stamp on the email server of TUD applies).
