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Sustainability and Climate Risks
Research UnitSustainability and Climate Risks

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Doctoral Position in Agricultural Climate Impact Research

The University of Hamburg invites applications for a Doctoral candidate position to contribute to the model-based assessment of climate impacts on the agricultural sector.

Employer: University of Hamburg

Work Location: Research Unit Sustainability and Climate Change, University of Hamburg, Germany

Planned Start Date: April/May 2025

Funding Duration: 3 years (TV-L 13, 65%)

   

Position Overview

The successful candidates will contribute to model-based assessments of climate impacts on the agricultural sector, including the evaluation of adaptation options. This innovative research project focuses on:

  • Assessing climate change impacts on agricultural systems
  • Investigating sustainable and climate-efficient production methods
  • Studying regions in Northern Germany, Namibia, other SADC countries, and Brazil

Key Responsibilities

  • Familiarize with and utilize the biophysical model EPIC (or equivalent alternative)
  • Prepare soil and climate data for model parameters using script-based methods
  • Research current crop management options and potential adaptations
  • Validate model results to reference situation
  • Analyze scenarios to explore the impacts of climate change and management adaptation on crop yields, water, carbon, and nutrient balances
  • Disseminate findings through impactful presentations and scholarly publications

Your Profile

  • Strong interest in applied research related to sustainability and adaptation of global food systems.
  • A Master’s degree in natural sciences or economics (e.g., agricultural or resource economics, geography, environmental sciences, or a related field).
  • Specialized knowledge or professional experience in modeling.
  • Proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB).
  • Experience in managing and analyzing large datasets.
  • Strong analytical skills with an ability for logical reasoning and mathematical thinking.
  • Team player with a willingness to collaborate across disciplines.
  • Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
  • Good knowledge of German is an advantage.

We Offer

  • 3-year funding of a doctoral research position
  • Collaboration in a challenging and interdisciplinary research project.
  • Membership in an international and socially engaged research team.
  • Engagement with socially relevant sustainability topics.
  • Professional development and further training opportunities.
  • Secure remuneration according to collective agreements and company pension scheme.
  • An attractive workplace location with flexible working hours.
  • Support for work-life balance.
  • Comprehensive health management.
  • 30 days of vacation per year.

This research role will be carried out in close collaboration with project partners from the Fraunhofer Institute for Automation and Production Technology in Stade, Germany, and the Lower Saxony Chamber of Agriculture. The candidate is expected to seek a cumulative doctorate with this position.

Application Process

Applications will be accepted starting immediately (January 24, 2025) until the position is filled. To apply, please send your application, including the following documents, to Prof. Dr. Uwe Schneider via applications-sustainability.cen"AT"uni-hamburg.de:

  • Cover letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Academic degree certificate
  • Academic transcripts
  • Summary of your master's thesis (abstract)

We look forward to receiving your application and the possibility of you joining our team to advance sustainable solutions in agriculture!