The University of Hohenheim is seeking two PhD students to join the State Plant Breeding Institute for a fixed-term project focused on advancing research in plant breeding, genetics, and biostatistics. The university is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, combining agricultural sciences, natural sciences, and economics and social sciences on a vibrant, green campus in Germany. The project aims to lay the foundations for improved assessment of wheat harvest quality, with a focus on developing selection indices for nutrient use efficiency, comparing cultivation methods, and elaborating quality characteristics for future wheat breeding. Key research areas include plant breeding, quantitative genetics, biostatistics, field trials, statistical analysis, and sustainable agriculture. The successful candidates will conduct extensive field trials on nitrogen fertilisation and fungicide use, perform laboratory tests for quality and ingredient analysis, collect and statistically evaluate data, and develop selection indices for nutrient efficiency. The role also involves preparing reports, presentations, and publications. Applicants should have a master's degree in plant breeding, quantitative genetics, or biostatistics, with good knowledge of statistical software (preferably R, ASReml). Proficiency in English is required, and knowledge of German is advantageous. Experience with plant breeding trials and a Class B driving licence are considered assets. The position is funded up to E13 TV-L, 65%, until 30 April 2029, subject to final project approval. The University of Hohenheim values diversity and encourages applications from women, people with disabilities, and those of equal status. Applications are to be submitted via the university's online portal by 28 February 2026. For further information, applicants may contact Prof. Dr. Friedrich Longin at [email protected].

The University of Hohenheim is offering two PhD positions in wheat breeding at the State Plant Breeding Institute, one of Germany's leading centers for applied plant breeding research. The project aims to lay the foundations for better and faster assessment of future domestic wheat harvest quality and to develop selection indices for nutrient use efficiency, comparing different cultivation methods and elaborating quality characteristics for wheat breeding. The research will involve extensive field trials on nitrogen fertilization and fungicide use, laboratory tests for quality and ingredient analysis, and statistical evaluation using advanced software such as R and ASReml. Candidates will also be involved in developing and implementing selection indices for nutrient efficiency and preparing reports, presentations, and publications. Applicants should hold a Master's degree focused on plant breeding, quantitative genetics, or biostatistics, and possess good knowledge of statistical software. Proficiency in English is required, while German language skills and experience with plant breeding trials are advantageous. The positions are funded up to E13 TV-L, 65%, until 30 April 2029, subject to project approval. The University of Hohenheim values diversity and encourages applications from women and individuals with disabilities. Applications must be submitted online by 28 February 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Friedrich Longin at [email protected].