PhD Position​/x vegetation ecology Excellence Cluster Forests, Univers

PhD Position (f/m/d/x) for vegetation ecology at the Excellence Cluster Future Forests, University of Freiburg

NEU

The Excellence Cluster Future Forests at the University of Freiburg invites applications for a PhD position in vegetation ecology/ecosystem ecology. The project focuses on how forest vegetation responds to increasingly novel conditions driven by climate change, biological invasions, and shifting management practices, with special emphasis on plant diversity and decomposition of organic matter.

• Conduct independent scientific research in vegetation ecology, geobotany, and ecosystem ecology.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary international research team.
• Participate in a structured doctoral programme, attending regular seminars and preparing progress reports.
• Publish findings and present at national and international conferences.
• Contribute to cluster activities, workshops, and outreach events.

• Master’s degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (e.g. Geoecology, Forest Sciences, Ecology, Environmental Sciences).
• Enthusiasm or proven experience in vegetation ecology or related disciplines such as geobotany, biodiversity research, or biogeochemistry.
• Strong taxonomic expertise in vascular plants and experience with statistical analysis (using R).
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork in challenging terrain and adverse weather, and to perform laboratory work including chemical analyses of plant and soil samples.
• Ability to work independently and within an interdisciplinary team.
• Proficient written and spoken English;
  German is an asset.
• Experience in scientific writing (publications, reports, theses) is an advantage.
• Driving licence (B/BE).

• Exciting interdisciplinary environment within a newly established Excellence Cluster.
• Structured support and supervision for scientific and career development.
• Diverse, inclusive research community and onboarding support.
• Opportunities for further education, conference attendance, and professional networking.
• Flexible working hours and support for work‑life balance.
• Salary according to TV‑L 13 and a budget for project‑specific expenses and career development activities.
• Benefits include a financial budget for project-specific expenses and further professional development.

The University of Freiburg is dedicated to the principles of equal opportunity and diversity and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, nationality, ethnicity or social background, religion or belief, disability, age, or sexual orientation.

Please send your application as a single PDF file including a cover letter, CV, relevant certificates/transcripts, and a publication list (if applicable). Applications should cite reference number  and be submitted by 12 January 2026 in English.

Application Address:
University of Freiburg
Faculty of Biology
Chair of Geobotany
Schänzlestr. 179
104 Freiburg
Germany

For further information, please contact Dr. Konrad Greinwald at +49 761 203‑2937 or konrad.greinwald‑