PhD Opportunities in Food System Diversity, Agriculture, Nutrition, and Social Sciences at Kiel University Kiel University in Germany

Kiel University is offering multiple PhD opportunities in a groundbreaking interdisciplinary research program focused on how diversity across food systems can enhance resilience against global crises. The program covers a wide range of research areas, including the impact of carp aquaculture management on ecosystem services, functional diversity for ecological intensification, resilience of microbiomes, land use diversity, crop diversification, supply chain management, food system policies, economic diversity, consumer resilience, and dietary diversity's effects on health and metabolism.

PhD candidates will join a collaborative and ambitious international research environment, benefiting from state-of-the-art infrastructure, strong national and international networks, and close collaboration with stakeholders from industry, policy, civil society, and NGOs. The working language is English, and a C1 level proficiency is required. The positions are funded for 3.5 or 4 years, starting April 15, 2026, with remuneration according to the German public-sector pay scale (TV-L E13) at 65% of a full-time position.

Applicants should have a relevant master's degree in agriculture, nutrition, economics, social sciences, or related fields. Women with equivalent qualifications, competence, and expertise will be given preference. Application materials include a letter of motivation (max 1 page), curriculum vitae, and transcripts of degree. Applicants must clearly indicate which doctoral project they are applying for and submit all documents as a single PDF via email to Dr. Svenja Fedde ([email protected]) by February 20, 2026. Selection days will be held from March 2-3, 2026.

Research topics include food system diversity, resilience, ecosystem services, microbiomes, supply chain management, dietary diversity, and the intersection of agriculture, nutrition, economics, and social sciences. This is an excellent opportunity for candidates interested in interdisciplinary research with real-world impact on food systems and global resilience.