Do you have a strong interest in international research collaboration, environmental sustainability, and soil science? A fully funded PhD job on “Effects of rurbanity on soil quality and soil contamination with microplastic” is available at Leibniz University Hannover’s Institute of Earth System Sciences.
This role is a great chance for early-career researchers who want to contribute to soil science, geosciences, microplastic studies, and global urbanization research because it is a member of the DFG-funded Research Unit FOR5903-Sustainable Rurbanity.
The growing idea of Sustainable Rurbanity, a framework addressing socio-environmental changes between urban and rural settings, is the main focus of the FOR5903 Research Unit. In particular, this PhD thesis will look at how these changes affect soil quality and contribute to microplastic pollution in Ghanaian and Indian cities.
Host Country: Germany
University: University of Leibniz
Opportunity Type: PhD
Subjects: Soil Science, Environmental Sciences
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Key Responsibilities:
As a doctoral investigator, you will:
- Conduct fieldwork to gather soil samples in Bengaluru, India, and Accra, Ghana.
- Analyze the soil chemically and physically, paying particular attention to microplastic pollution.
- Create and implement spectral analysis methods for assessing soil.
- Work closely with PhD students and other academics, such as those at the University of Kassel who are researching PFAS contamination.
- Participate in soil mapping projects using drones, with the potential to conduct flights within India.
- Attend conferences both domestically and abroad to present your findings.
- Publicize your research in peer-reviewed journals.
Eligibility Criteria:
Applicants should:
- Hold a master’s degree in soil science, geosciences, environmental science, or a related discipline.
- Have strong English proficiency (written and spoken).
- Show clear motivation to pursue a doctoral degree (PhD).
- Be physically fit for tropical fieldwork and willing to spend extended periods in Ghana and India.
- Be team-oriented, adaptable, and culturally sensitive.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with soil analysis methods.
- Knowledge of spectral analysis tools or drone operations.
- Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
Benefits:
- Join one of the leading research institutions in Germany, home to more than 5,000 employees and a thriving, multidisciplinary community.
- top-notch research and academic facilities.
- global workplace with a multicultural population.
- support for work-life balance, including childcare and family services.
- access to more than 100 sporting activities, wellness initiatives, and fitness centers on campus.
- Possibilities for mobile or remote employment.
- programs for career development and language instruction.
Deadline: 15 August 2025
