PhD candidate (m/f/d): Real-time monitoring techniques for advanced food production systems

Hohenheim; Stuttgart; On-site; EUR 30,000 - 46,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working hours

Remote working

Health support

Job ticket

Job bike

Job summary

The University of Hohenheim invites applications for a PhD candidate in real-time monitoring techniques for advanced food production systems. The research group focuses on plant-based foods, imaging, and processing under real industrial conditions.

The role involves interdisciplinary project work, development of imaging solutions, publication of results, and participation in graduate academy programs. Immediate start and 50% scope with potential extension to 4 years.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in engineering, computer science, material science, bioprocess engineering or related fields.
• Fundamental and practical knowledge in image processing and programming.
• Interest in developing state-of-the-art engineering solutions for food materials.

Responsibilities

• Actively participate in interdisciplinary research projects with industry and academia.
• Develop and apply real-time imaging/monitoring solutions in lab and pilot plant settings.
• Create methods and systems that can be integrated into food processing.
• Publish findings in international journals and present at conferences.
• Engage in professional development through Graduate Academy programs.

Skills

Imaging

Programming

Independent work

English communication

Education

Master's degree in engineering / computer science / material science / bioprocess engineering or related field

Tools

Image processing

Job description

PhD candidate (m/f/d): Real-time monitoring techniques for advanced food production systems

Fachgebiet Pflanzliche Lebensmittel (150d)

Code: 2026/140

Application deadline: 2026-11-15

The department of Plant-based Foods at the University of Hohenheim conducts state-of-the-art research on the quality, functionality and processing of plant-based raw materials throughout the entire value chain. Using an interdisciplinary approach, we combine fundamental research with practical solutions and offer a dynamic environment for early-career researchers passionate about research.

Start With immediate effect

Remuneration up to E13 TV-L

Scope 50% with a subsequent increase

Duration A fixed-term contract for 1 year, with the option to extend for up to 4 years

Location Stuttgart-Hohenheim

Your tasks

• Scientific project & networking – You’ll actively participate across multiple interdisciplinary research projects, and with our support, you’ll build a diverse network of partners from academia and industry.
• Research focus – You will develop and apply imaging/monitoring solutions in lab and pilot plant settings to gain insights into food material behaviour under real processing conditions.
• Product innovation – You will develop real-time imaging systems and processing methodologies which can be integrated in food processing and industrial solutions.
• Knowledge transfer – You will prepare your research findings for publication in internationally renowned journals and present them at scientific conferences.
• Professional development – You will systematically expand your technical and methodological skills through the programs offered by the Graduate Academy.

Your profile

• University degree – You have a master’s degree in engineering, computer science, material science, bioprocess engineering or related fields.
• Fundamental and practical knowledge – Ideally, you have some prior knowledge in mechanical engineering, material sciences, image processing and programming.
• Interests – You are interested in developing state-of-the‑art engineering solutions and analytical approaches. Also, you are interested in processing techniques (such as 3D printing) and food material behavior.
• Scientific curiosity – You enjoy independently developing and addressing scientific questions and like working on interdisciplinary research topics.
• Ability to work independently – You work independently, in a structured and responsible manner, and approach tasks reliably with a focus on applicable solutions.
• Language skills – You have very good written and spoken English. Knowledge of German is an advantage, but not mandatory.

What sets us apart

• Vibrant and innovative working environment on a green campus with everything at close quarters
• Multi‑faceted and responsible role with creative freedom
• Secure position
• Very good work/life balance
• Flexible working hours & remote working
• Wide range of opportunities for personal and professional development
• Health support & university sport
• Job ticket & Job bike

Working environment

As a university with a distinct profile, the University of Hohenheim brings together the Faculties of Agricultural Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Business, Economics and Social Sciences. Our green campus with everything at close quarters promotes collaboration and creates an inspiring environment for research, teaching, and work. With us, aspiring minds find a community in which they can grow and develop. Shape a sustainable future with us!

Equal opportunities and diversity are important to us. Your skills and strengths count for us – regardless of age, gender, origin, or religion. We welcome applications from people with severe disabilities or equivalent; if suitable, we will give them preferential consideration.

Have we sparked your interest?

We look forward to receiving your application through our online portal. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Dr.-Ing. Ahmed R. Fahmy by email at [e-mail] Are you interested in our current research? Learn more at plant-based-foods.uni-hohenheim.de/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-jekle/.

Universität Hohenheim Schloss Hohenheim 1, 70599 Stuttgart