PhD Position in Agronomy, Crop Science, and Plant Stress Physiology at University of Göttingen University of Göttingen in Germany

The University of Göttingen is offering a four-year PhD position in Agronomy and Crop Science, focusing on plant stress physiology and advanced phenotyping. The successful candidate will join the DFG Research Unit “MultiStress” to investigate how maize responds to concurrent drought, nitrogen deficiency, and biotic stresses such as stem borer and Setosphaeria turcica. The research will utilize hyperspectral imaging, physiological, biochemical, and molecular analyses, and advanced data modeling to identify stress-adaptive traits in maize. Experiments will be conducted in both Germany and Kenya, supporting academic collaboration between East Africa and Germany.

This opportunity is targeted at East African students, aiming to strengthen research ties and capacity building. The main tasks include conducting hyperspectral imaging and physiological measurements, collecting and analyzing data from lab and field experiments, integrating datasets using machine learning and statistical modeling, and publishing findings in international peer-reviewed journals. Applicants should have a master's degree in a relevant field, strong English skills, and experience with data analysis, preferably using R or Python. Preferred skills include plant phenotyping, biochemical assays, machine learning, and experience with large datasets and fieldwork.

The position is fully funded, pending final approval by December 2025. Applications should be submitted as a single PDF to Dr. Irsa Ejaz by December 5, 2025. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated, collaborative students interested in plant stress, crop science, and international research collaboration.