⛔ This position is no longer available.
University: Osnabrück University
Country: Germany
Deadline: 2026-04-30
Fields: Geography, Environmental Science, Geoinformatics, Political Science, Sociology
Are you passionate about understanding the complex interplay between human activities and ecological systems, and eager to contribute to research that addresses global environmental challenges?
Pursuing a doctoral degree in socio-ecological systems at Osnabrück University in Germany offers the chance to work at the forefront of interdisciplinary research, focusing on the critical issues of ecological regime shifts and systemic risks within coupled social-ecological systems. This position, embedded within the DFG-funded Research Training Group “Ecological Regime Shifts and Systemic Risk in Coupled Social-Ecological Systems” (ECORISK), provides an exceptional opportunity to advance your academic career in a supportive and internationally oriented environment.
About the University or Research Institute
Osnabrück University, located in the vibrant and historic city of Osnabrück in northwestern Germany, is renowned for its commitment to innovative research and academic excellence. The university attracts a diverse body of students and scholars from around the globe, fostering a dynamic and inclusive academic community. The institution places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly in the fields of environmental sciences, geography, and cultural studies. Osnabrück itself is known for its high quality of life, combining a rich cultural heritage with modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for international students and researchers.
Germany is recognized worldwide for its robust higher education system, excellent research infrastructure, and strong commitment to scientific advancement. Studying in Germany not only grants access to world-class academic programs but also provides opportunities to engage with leading experts and participate in cutting-edge projects addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time.
Research Topic and Significance
The ECORISK Research Training Group focuses on the causes and consequences of ecological regime shifts and the systemic risks they pose within coupled social-ecological systems. These shifts, often triggered by human activities such as intensive agriculture, can lead to profound and sometimes irreversible changes in ecosystem structure and function, with significant implications for society and the environment.
The specific subproject, “Balancing agricultural and environmental water demand to address the sensitivity of socio-ecological systems,” aims to model the sensitivity of these systems under varying hydro-climatic and agricultural scenarios. By analyzing the influence of different agricultural practices on water demand and productivity in the context of climate variability, this research seeks to inform sustainable water management and adaptation strategies. The outcomes of this work are highly relevant in today’s context of increasing climate uncertainty, water scarcity, and the need for resilient agricultural systems.
Project Details
The advertised PhD position is based at the Institute of Geography within the School of Cultural Studies and Social Sciences at Osnabrück University. The successful candidate will engage in scientific research on modeling socio-ecological system sensitivity and ecological regime shifts, focusing on the interplay between agricultural practices, water demand, and climate variability. The position is funded until September 30, 2029, with an anticipated start date of October 1, 2026.
As part of the ECORISK Research Training Group, the candidate will benefit from a structured doctoral program, tailored training opportunities, and participation in interdisciplinary events. The project encourages collaboration across various disciplines, including behavioral economics, ecological modeling, environmental systems science, geography, geoinformatics, political science, and sociology. The working environment is characterized by collegiality, diversity, and a strong commitment to equity and work-life balance.
Candidate Profile
This position is ideal for candidates who have:
– A strong academic background with a completed degree in Geography or a related discipline.
– Demonstrated research interest in socio-hydrological perspectives, ecological regime shifts, and systemic risks.
– Proficiency in both English and German, with excellent written and spoken communication skills.
– A sound understanding of environmental processes and human-water interactions, especially in agricultural contexts.
– Experience or willingness to develop expertise in integrated modeling approaches such as WEAP (Water Evaluation and Adaptation Planning) or agent-based models.
– Skills in data analysis (qualitative, quantitative, spatial) and familiarity with climate change adaptation strategies.
– An interest in participatory systems and scenario analysis, including stakeholder engagement and workshop facilitation.
– A desire to work within an interdisciplinary and international research team.
Osnabrück University values diversity and is committed to providing equal opportunities. Applications from women and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged, and preference will be given to candidates with disability status if equally qualified.
Application Process
To apply, candidates should prepare the following documents:
– A motivation letter (maximum two pages) outlining their interest in the advertised position.
– A two-page outline of their own ideas for the design of the subproject.
– Curriculum vitae (CV), which may include a list of publications.
– Transcripts of previous academic degrees (BA/MA, including Transcripts of Records).
– The name and email address of a potential reference.
All application materials should be submitted electronically as a single PDF file by April 30, 2026.
For further details and to access the official advertisement, please visit:
https://www.uni-osnabrueck.de/en/university/working-at-osnabrueck-university/job-vacancies/39-fb-1-research-assistant-phd-candidate-mfd-dfg-funded-research-training-group-ecorisk-a5
Conclusion
This PhD position at Osnabrück University offers an outstanding opportunity to engage in impactful research at the interface of environmental science, geography, and social sciences. If you are motivated to contribute to understanding and managing the risks associated with ecological regime shifts in socio-ecological systems, consider applying for this position. Stay tuned for similar opportunities and take the next step in your academic journey.
Questions & Answers
Question: What are ecological regime shifts, and why are they significant for society?
Ecological regime shifts are large, often abrupt changes in the structure and function of ecosystems, which can have profound impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem services, and human well-being. Understanding and managing these shifts is crucial for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of social-ecological systems.
Question: What makes Osnabrück University an attractive destination for international PhD candidates?
Osnabrück University is known for its interdisciplinary research, supportive academic environment, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. Its location in a culturally rich and livable city, combined with Germany’s reputation for academic excellence, makes it an appealing choice for international scholars.
Question: What kind of research experience will I gain from this PhD position?
You will gain hands-on experience in integrated modeling, data analysis, and participatory research methods, working within a multidisciplinary team. The project also offers opportunities for stakeholder engagement and the development of adaptation strategies in response to climate variability.
Question: Are there opportunities for work-life balance and flexible working arrangements?
Yes, Osnabrück University is a family-friendly institution that supports flexible working hours and partial remote work, helping students and staff balance their professional and personal commitments.
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