PhD Position in Soil Science and Carbon Cycling in Forests

A PhD position in Soil Science is available for the research project ‘Understanding the input of carbon from tree roots to soils in drier forests (RadiCs)’, funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - German Research Foundation. The project is based at Leipzig University and focuses on investigating how belowground processes in forests respond to drier environmental conditions. The research aims to contribute to a better understanding of carbon cycling at the tree-soil interface under changing precipitation patterns. Key research topics include root lifespans, distributions, and tissue quality across soil profiles, transit times of carbon from trees to soils, and the formation of soil organic carbon through altered belowground biological activity. The project will utilize a range of approaches and will be conducted in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Mika Tarkka and Dr. Boaz Hilman. Applicants should have a background in soil science, environmental science, biology, or related fields, with an interest in forest ecology and carbon cycling. Experience in laboratory or field research is preferred. The position is fully funded by DFG, though specific details on stipend and tuition coverage are not provided in the announcement. The application deadline is December 29, 2025, with a starting date in March or April 2026. Interested candidates should review the application details via the provided link and prepare all necessary documents for submission. This opportunity is ideal for those passionate about environmental science, soil processes, and climate change impacts on forest ecosystems.