Academic position

Postdoctoral Associate in Plant Hydrodynamics (m/f/d)

The newly established Department of Plant Ecophysiology at the University of Hohenheim seeks a colleague for a full-time, 3-year position to begin in September 2024. The successful candidate will pursue fundamental research (90%) in plant hydrodynamics in collaboration with Jun. Prof. Martin Bouda and perform teaching duties (10%) for the department.

Our present work combines plant physiology, ecosystem science, and evolutionary thought using network science and fluid dynamics to achieve theoretical advances in plant ecophysiology. We develop original quantitative models linking plant structure and function at multiple scales and use lab- and field-based observations to test their predictions. We are seeking an experimental scientist with the right skill set to complement existing competences.

Research areas of interest include:
- structure, function, and evolution of plant vascular networks;
- multiphase fluid dynamics influencing plant hydraulic function and failure;
- hydrodynamics of the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum; or
- cross-scale interactions and whole-plant coordination of material and energy flows.

Key research tasks will include proposing, planning, and executing experiments, analysing experimental results and preparing scientific publications. Teaching tasks will include assisting with course development, contact with students, and opportunities to supervise student thesis work. The position will also offer opportunities and support to develop and submit applications for external project funding and to present research results at relevant international scientific conferences.

Competitive candidates will have:
- Ph.D. in Plant Ecophysiology or closely related discipline;
- extensive experience with contemporary laboratory methods in plant hydraulics;
- fluency in statistical analysis using software of their own choice.
- previous exposure to quantitative modelling of plant ecophysiology, environmental hydrodynamics, or similar;
- excellent written and spoken English skills;
- strong interpersonal skills and ability to work well in a team (e.g., to ask for and offer help as needed);
- a record of scientific publications appropriate to career stage; and
- be curiosity-driven and self-motivated.

Offer, work environment, and resources:

This is a full-time position with an initial appointment period of up to 3 years with the possibility of extension.

Salary and conditions according to the collective bargaining agreement for scientific staff in public employment for state of Baden-Württemberg, pay grade E13 (TV-L).

Benefits include 30 days of vacation time per year, legally mandated employer health insurance contributions, or staff meal discount at the university cafeteria.

The University of Hohenheim offers state-of-the-art plant growth and laboratory facilities. Ontop of shared departmental resources, the position includes a research budget of  €2000 per year for the Associate’s own projects.

We offer professional development opportunities through university training programmes, mentoring in scientific and professional skills (e.g., grant writing), collaboration within an international scientific community, funding for attendance at international conferences, teaching and supervision opportunities.

The Department of Plant Ecophysiology is an English-speaking work environment; all duties are to be performed in English. The department is part of the Institute of Biology and offers a friendly, dynamic research environment with diverse collaboration opportunities. The University of Hohenheim is host to a fast-growing international research community and a family-friendly employer.

Application deadline : 15.06.2024

Please attach the following documents to your application:

A single pdf document including (1) a letter of motivation stating your research interests and fit for this position, (2) a structured CV including a list of publications, and (3) the name and contact information of 2 referees. Please submit your application using the link on this website.

Any inquiries about the position can be directed to Jun. Prof. Martin Bouda by email (martin.bouda@uni-hohenheim.de) with the subject line “Postdoctoral Associate in Plant Hydrodynamics.” The University of Hohenheim seeks to increase the proportion of women in research and teaching and strongly encourages qualified female scientists to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to candidates with disabilities.