Germany – PhD in Agronomy & Crop Science at Georg-August University of Göttingen

PhDFinder; Göttingen; Hybrid; EUR 40.000 - 60.000; Vollzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research university in Germany is offering a PhD opportunity focused on investigating maize responses to environmental stresses. The role includes conducting impactful research in both Germany and Kenya. Ideal candidates will have a Master’s degree in a relevant field, a solid understanding of plant stress physiology, and strong data analysis skills. This scholarship aims to support East African students and enhance academic collaboration.

Qualifikationen

• A solid understanding of plant stress physiology.
• Experience with data analysis and statistics, preferably using R or Python.
• Willingness and eligibility to work in both Germany and Kenya.
• African nationality, with preference given to East-African candidates.

Aufgaben

• Conducting hyperspectral imaging and physiological measurements of maize.
• Collecting and analysing physiological and biochemical data from experiments.
• Publishing research findings in international peer-reviewed journals.

Kenntnisse

Plant stress physiology

Data analysis

Strong English communication skills

Ausbildung

Master’s degree in plant physiology, agronomy, biology, environmental sciences, or related field

Tools

R

Python

Jobbeschreibung

University: Georg-August University of Göttingen

Country: Germany

Deadline: 2025-12-05

Fields: Agronomy, Crop Science, Plant Physiology, Biology, Environmental Sciences

Are you passionate about advancing sustainable agriculture and eager to make a meaningful impact on food security in Africa and beyond? If you are motivated to explore how crops respond to multiple environmental and biological stresses, this PhD opportunity in Agronomy and Crop Science at Georg-August University of Göttingen could be the next step in your academic journey.

About The University

Georg-August University of Göttingen, located in the historic city of Göttingen, Germany, is one of Europe’s leading research universities. Founded in 1737, the university boasts a strong tradition of excellence in natural sciences, life sciences, and agriculture. Its Faculty of Agriculture is internationally recognized for cutting‑edge research in crop science and sustainable agricultural practices. The university offers a vibrant academic environment, state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities, and a dynamic international community, making it an ideal destination for ambitious scholars. Germany itself is renowned for its commitment to research, innovation, and global academic collaboration, offering students a high quality of life, robust support networks, and access to leading scientific resources.

Research Topic and Significance

The advertised PhD position focuses on “Investigating the physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of maize to concurrent biotic and abiotic stresses.” This research is crucial in today’s context, as climate change and environmental degradation intensify the challenges faced by staple crops worldwide. Maize, a vital crop for food security in Africa and globally, is increasingly exposed to complex stress combinations, including drought, nutrient deficiency, and pest infestations. Understanding how maize responds to these simultaneous threats is essential for developing resilient crop varieties and ensuring sustainable agricultural productivity. The project’s outcomes will contribute to the scientific understanding of plant stress adaptation and have direct implications for improving crop yields and food security in East Africa and other regions facing similar challenges.

Role

This four‑year PhD scholarship is offered by the Division of Agronomy at the Faculty of Agriculture, Georg-August University of Göttingen, in cooperation with the KAAD (Catholic Academic Exchange Service). The successful candidate will play a key role in the DFG Research Unit “MultiStress” (pending final approval), contributing to experimental research both in Germany and Kenya. The project involves:

• Conducting hyperspectral imaging and physiological measurements of maize subjected to combined biotic (stem borer, Setosphaeria turcica) and abiotic (drought, heat, nitrogen deficiency) stresses.
• Collecting and analysing physiological and biochemical data from both laboratory and field experiments in Kenya and Germany.
• Integrating spectral, physiological, and biochemical datasets using advanced machine learning and statistical modelling to identify traits associated with stress adaptation.
• Publishing research findings in international peer‑reviewed journals and presenting results at scientific conferences.

The position is specifically targeted at East African students and aims to foster academic collaboration between Germany and East Africa.

Candidate Profile

The Ideal Candidate For This PhD Position Will Possess

• A Master’s degree in plant physiology, agronomy, biology, environmental sciences, or a closely related field.
• A solid understanding of plant stress physiology.
• Experience with data analysis and statistics, preferably using R or Python.
• Strong English communication skills.
• Willingness and eligibility to work in both Germany and Kenya.
• African nationality, with preference given to East‑African candidates.

Preferred Experiences And Skills Include

• Experience with imaging techniques for plant phenotyping.
• Knowledge of biochemical assays.
• Familiarity with machine learning or chemometric techniques.
• Ability to handle and process large datasets.
• Experience working in both field and greenhouse experimental settings.
• High levels of self‑motivation, organization, and collaboration.

Application Process

To apply, candidates should prepare a single PDF file containing a motivation letter, CV, and relevant certificates. Applications must be submitted by 05.12.25. For further details, please refer to the official advertisement posted by Dr. Irsa Ejaz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/dr-irsa-ejaz-8132ab124_phdposition-hyperspectralimaging-plantstress-activity-7394348814314164224-fOPp

Conclusion

This is a unique opportunity for East African scholars to join a prestigious German university, gain hands‑on research experience in both Europe and Africa, and contribute to vital advances in crop science and food security. If you are inspired to tackle the challenges of sustainable agriculture and want to be part of an international research community, you are strongly encouraged to apply. For more opportunities like this, be sure to follow updates and explore similar positions.