Doctoral Researcher (m/w/d)

The Professorship of Forest Genetics seeks to hire a Doctoral Researcher (m/w/d)

The position is embedded in the project “BeGenDiv – A multispecies genetic diversity survey for the Biodiversity Exploratories ” and will focus on characterizing the genetic diversity of tree and shrub species in the forest plots of the Biodiversity Exploratories ( ). The PhD project will investigate the genetic diversity of around 30 tree and shrub species in landscapes characterized by diverse combinations of forest management intensity and environmental heterogeneity. The PhD project will focus on a comparative analysis among species, while multi‑species indices will be developed by a postdoctoral researcher in the same project.

This is a collaborative project involving researchers from the University of Freiburg (Prof. Dr. Katrin Heer & Dr. Jill Sekely), the University of Marburg (Prof. Dr. Lars Opgenoorth), and UFZ Halle (Dr. Walter Durka). Since the project is embedded in the Biodiversity Exploratories, there will be cooperation and scientific exchange with many researchers from across Germany.

Your Tasks

• Independent scientific research in the field of forest ecology and forest genetics
• Lab work, specifically DNA extractions & library preparation for some species (most samples will be handled by external providers)
• Bioinformatic data analysis of whole genome and ddRAD data for the characterization of genetic diversity
• Data analysis in R
• Collaboration with interdisciplinary and international research teams
• Contribution to scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences
• Contribution to regular seminars (in the working group and in the BE community)

Your Profile

• Completed university degree (M.Sc. or equivalent) in Biology, Forest Science, or a related field
• Good skills in laboratory work and statistical analysis
• Experience with field work and the ability to work under demanding field conditions
• Experience in bioinformatic analysis and forest ecology or willingness to learn about both
• Ability to work independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team
• Proficiency in written and spoken English; German is an asset
• Experience in scientific writing (publications) is an advantage

We Offer

• An exciting collaborative project with researchers at four German research institutions (Universities in Freiburg, Marburg, and Tübingen, and the UFZ in Halle)
• Support and supervision for your scientific and career development
• A diverse, collaborative, and inclusive research community, including initial University onboarding support
• Involvement in the Biodiversity Exploratories Research Community (including annual meetings with 100+ researchers from all over Germany)
• Opportunities for further training, attendance at conferences, and professional networking
• Flexible working hours and support with work‑life balance
• Salary according to TV‑L 13
• A 3‑year contract for PhD research

Please upload your application, including the following documents to the University portal (link below)

• Cover letter with research interests
• CV and academic certificates
• Example of a scientific work (English preferred)
• Contact details of at least two references

The position is limited to 3 years. The salary will be determined in accordance with TVL13.

Please send your application in English including supporting documents mentioned above citing the reference number , by 20. Januar 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form: