PhD Fellowships in Robotic Intercropping, Agroecology, and Plant Science at University of Copenhagen

The University of Copenhagen is recruiting three PhD fellows for the Novo Nordisk Foundation–funded Robotic Intercropping project, a major international research initiative focused on advancing sustainable agriculture through the integration of robotics and intercropping systems. The project is a collaboration between leading institutions in Denmark and the Netherlands, including the University of Copenhagen, Wageningen University & Research, the University of Southern Denmark, and the Technical University of Denmark. The Robotic Intercropping project aims to co-develop innovative solutions for sustainable crop production by combining agroecology, plant science, robotics, and modelling. The research addresses key challenges in modern agriculture, such as resource competition, biodiversity loss, and the need for climate-resilient farming systems. The project introduces intercropping strips of cash and service crops (e.g., wheat, oilseed rape, faba beans, alfalfa) and leverages lightweight, autonomous robots for precise monitoring and management of crop interactions and resource use. The three PhD positions are based at the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Section for Crop Sciences, University of Copenhagen, and are part of Focus Areas 1 (agroecological potential) and 2 (ecological interactions). The research will involve field and controlled experiments, data collection on crop and weed performance, nutrient and soil analysis, and the use of biostatistical and modelling tools. All PhD fellows will collaborate closely with project partners at Wageningen University & Research, including a research stay in the Netherlands. Supervisors include Prof. Svend Christensen (University of Copenhagen), Dr. Ir. Dirk van Apeldoorn (Wageningen University & Research), Assoc. Prof. Signe Marie Jensen (University of Copenhagen), Prof. Jonne Rodenburg (Wageningen University & Research), Assistant Prof. Veronica Hansen (University of Copenhagen), and Assistant Prof. Stephanie Watts-Fawkes (Wageningen University & Research). Applicants should have an MSc in plant or crop science, agroecology, soil science, or a related field, with experience or strong interest in crop functional traits, resource competition, field and controlled experiments, crop and soil measurements, remote sensing, and data analysis. Good language skills and a collaborative mindset are essential. The PhD fellowships are fully funded for three years, including salary, benefits, and research expenses, with tuition covered. The positions are part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary research environment with state-of-the-art facilities at the Taastrup Campus near Copenhagen. Application deadline is 14 December 2025. To apply, submit your application via the University of Copenhagen job portal, including a motivated letter, CV, diplomas, transcripts, publication list, and reference letters if available. For more information, visit the project website or contact Prof. Svend Christensen at [email protected].