Are you driven by a passion for environmental sustainability, soil science, and global research collaboration? The Institute of Earth System Sciences at Leibniz University Hannover (LUH) in Germany invites applications for a fully funded PhD position under the prestigious DFG Research Unit FOR5903 – Sustainable Rurbanity.
This opportunity is ideal for early-career researchers interested in soil quality, microplastic contamination, and the urban-rural interface in rapidly developing regions.
About the Project: Sustainable Rurbanity (FOR5903)
The research project is part of a multi-university collaboration exploring Sustainable Rurbanity—an innovative framework studying the transitions between rural and urban landscapes. The PhD project focuses on analyzing how these socio-environmental shifts impact soil quality and microplastic pollution in selected rurban areas of Ghana (Accra) and India (Bengaluru).
Key Responsibilities
As a PhD researcher, your tasks will include:
-
Conducting field campaigns in Ghana and India for soil sampling
-
Performing soil-physical and soil-chemical analyses with a focus on microplastics
-
Developing spectral analysis methods for soil contamination assessment
-
Collaborating with peers, including those studying PFAS contamination at the University of Kassel
-
Supporting drone-based soil mapping operations
-
Presenting your research at national and international conferences
-
Publishing findings in peer-reviewed scientific journals
Scholarship Benefits
By joining Leibniz University Hannover, you become part of one of Germany’s top-tier research institutions. Benefits include:
-
Fully funded PhD position
-
Access to modern research infrastructure
-
International and interdisciplinary work environment
-
Flexible work arrangements (remote/mobile options)
-
Career development programs and language training
-
Family-friendly policies and childcare services
-
Access to campus fitness centers and wellness programs
Eligibility Criteria
Who can apply?
This PhD scholarship is open to applicants of all nationalities who meet the following requirements:
Mandatory:
-
A Master’s degree in soil science, environmental science, geosciences, or related fields
-
Proficiency in English (spoken and written)
-
Strong motivation to pursue a doctoral degree
-
Physical fitness for tropical fieldwork and willingness to travel to Ghana and India
-
Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills
Desirable:
-
Experience with soil analysis techniques
-
Familiarity with spectral analysis and drone technologies
-
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
-
Solid organizational and communication abilities
Equal Opportunity Statement
Leibniz University Hannover is an equal opportunity employer. Applications from women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged. In cases of equal qualifications, preference will be given to applicants with disabilities.
How to Apply
To apply, submit the following documents by August 15, 2025:
-
Cover letter
-
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
-
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
-
Contact details of references (if available)
Email your application to:
Prof. Dr. Stephan Peth
✉️ peth@ifbk.uni-hannover.de
Or mail to:
Institut für Erdsystemwissenschaften / Abteilung Bodenkunde
Prof. Dr. Stephan Peth
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität Hannover
Herrenhäuser Str. 2, 30419 Hannover, Germany
More information about the project: www.uni-kassel.de/go/for-5903
