PhD Scholarship in Crop Modelling, Plant–Pathogen Interactions, and Ecological Dynamics at University of Göttingen University of Göttingen in Germany

The University of Göttingen's Institute of Tropical Plant Production and Agricultural Systems Modelling (TROPAGS) is offering a four-year PhD scholarship under the DFG-funded MultiStress Research Unit (RU 6101). This opportunity is primarily directed toward students from East Africa but is open to all qualified candidates. The research focuses on process-based crop modelling of biotic–abiotic stress interactions in maize, including crop modelling, plant–pathogen interactions, and ecological dynamics. The project aims to improve understanding and prediction of crop performance under complex stress environments, specifically investigating how maize responds to multiple stress factors such as drought, nitrogen deficit, and disease (Setosphaeria turcica).

Main tasks include developing and implementing new routines for disease effects on maize physiological processes, integrating and testing these within the MultiStress crop model, calibrating and validating the model using experimental data, analyzing model outputs, and collaborating with other subprojects. The position offers dynamic, interdisciplinary research training, access to unique datasets, high-performance computing, and opportunities for international collaboration and conference participation.

Applicants must have a Master's degree in a relevant field (Crop Science, Agronomy, Agricultural or Environmental Sciences, Plant Pathology, Systems Biology), strong interest in quantitative crop modelling, programming and data analysis skills (R, Python), and experience with process-based models is advantageous. Excellent English skills and the ability to work in an international team are required.

To apply, candidates should send a single PDF (motivation letter, CV, certificates) to Prof. Reimund Rötter at [email protected] by 04 January 2026. Interviews will be held on 15, 19, or 20 January 2026, with invitations sent on 12 January 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Rötter or Dr. Munir Hoffmann.