The University of Hohenheim is inviting applications for a three-year Research Assistant (f/m/d) position in the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding. This full-time appointment is classified up to TV-L E13 and is particularly attractive for early-career scientists seeking to strengthen their research profile in quantitative genetics, genomics, and animal breeding. For researchers with a PhD in agricultural sciences, animal science, genetics, or related disciplines, this opportunity combines independent research, university teaching, and IT infrastructure development within one of Europe’s most respected agricultural universities.

This position is ideal for researchers aiming to build careers in: Animal breeding and genetics Livestock genomics Computational biology Agricultural data science University teaching and research If you are passionate about applying genomic tools to improve the health, efficiency, and sustainability of farm animal populations, this role offers an outstanding academic platform.

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Why the University of Hohenheim Stands Out

Founded in 1818, the University of Hohenheim is Germany’s oldest university specializing in agricultural sciences. Located in Stuttgart, the university hosts approximately 9,000 students and around 2,000 employees across three faculties:

• Agricultural Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Economic and Social Sciences

Its park-like campus is widely regarded as one of Germany’s most attractive academic environments, offering a highly collaborative atmosphere and excellent research infrastructure. The Research Assistant position in Animal Genetics and Breeding at the University of Hohenheim is an excellent opportunity for scientists seeking a high-impact postdoctoral role in livestock genomics and quantitative genetics. With a full-time TV-L E13 salary, a three-year contract, and a stimulating research environment, this position offers the ideal setting to advance both academic and professional goals in one of Europe’s strongest agricultural research institutions.

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About the Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding

The Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding (460g) investigates genetic variation in economically and biologically important traits in farm animals. Research focuses on:

• Robustness and resilience
• Feed and production efficiency
• Animal health
• Sustainable use of genetic diversity
• Breeding value estimation and selection strategies

The group combines cutting-edge quantitative and molecular genetic approaches and collaborates with interdisciplinary partners in agriculture, biology, and data science. The department is led by Professor Dr. Jörn Bennewitz, a well-known researcher in livestock genetics and breeding.

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Position Overview

Job Title: Research Assistant (f/m/d)
Institution: University of Hohenheim
Department: Animal Genetics and Breeding (460g)
Location: Stuttgart, Germany
Contract Duration: 3 years (fixed term)
Employment Level: 100% full-time (job sharing possible)
Salary: Up to TV-L E13
Application Deadline: 15 June 2026

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Research and Teaching Responsibilities

This role combines postdoctoral research, teaching, and technical support.

Teaching Duties

You will:

• Prepare and follow up on lectures
• Supervise student projects and theses
• Assist with seminars
• Organize and support practical exercises

Research Activities

Your work will include:

• Supporting ongoing research in animal genetics and breeding
• Analyzing genomic and phenotypic data from farm animals
• Conducting independent research in molecular and statistical genomics
• Developing methods relevant to modern breeding programs

IT Infrastructure

You will also help maintain and improve the research group’s computing environment and data infrastructure.

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Candidate Profile

Applicants should ideally have:

• A completed university degree in agricultural sciences, natural sciences, or a related field
• A PhD (preferred)
• A solid publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• University teaching experience
• Strong communication skills
• Enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration
• Experience in IT administration or scientific computing

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Key Scientific Areas Covered by the Position

This role is particularly relevant to researchers working in:

• Quantitative genetics
• Molecular genetics
• Statistical genomics
• Bioinformatics
• Animal breeding
• Livestock production
• Computational biology

Candidates with expertise in R, Python, Linux, high-performance computing, or genomic prediction methods will likely be especially competitive.

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Salary and Benefits

The position is remunerated according to the German public service pay scale TV-L E13.

What TV-L E13 Means

TV-L E13 is the standard salary scale for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers at German universities. At 100% employment, it provides a competitive salary package including:

• Monthly gross salary according to experience level
• Health insurance contributions
• Public pension benefits
• Paid vacation
• Annual special payment
• Job security under public sector conditions

Job sharing arrangements are possible, offering additional flexibility.

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Living and Working in Stuttgart

Stuttgart is one of Germany’s strongest research and industrial regions. Researchers benefit from:

• Excellent public transportation
• Strong international community
• Proximity to companies such as Mercedes-Benz and Porsche
• Access to the Black Forest and nearby European destinations

The University of Hohenheim campus itself offers a quiet, green environment ideal for focused research.

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Diversity and Equal Opportunity

The University of Hohenheim is committed to equal opportunity and diversity. Applications are welcomed regardless of:

• Age
• Gender
• Cultural background
• Religion or worldview

Applicants with severe disabilities or equivalent status are especially encouraged to apply and will receive preference when qualifications are essentially equal.

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How to Apply

Applications should be submitted via email or through the APPLY NOW. Applicants should include standard academic documents, typically:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Degree certificates
• Publication list
• Teaching record
• Contact information for references

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Application Deadline

15 June 2026 Submitting early is advisable to avoid last-minute technical issues. The University of Hohenheim accepts applications via a secure internet site. To the application

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Contact Information

For questions or to submit your application, contact:

Professor Dr. Jörn Bennewitz
Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding
University of Hohenheim
Phone: +49 711 459 23570
Email: j.bennewitz@uni-hohenheim.de

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this position suitable for postdoctoral researchers?

Yes. Since a PhD is preferred and independent research is expected, the role is well suited to postdoctoral scientists.

Is the position fully funded?

Yes. The appointment is a three-year salaried position funded by the University of Hohenheim.

What salary level is offered?

The position is classified up to TV-L E13 at 100% employment.

Can the position be shared?

Yes. Job sharing is explicitly possible.

Is teaching experience required?

Teaching experience is preferred and will strengthen your application.

What programming skills are useful?

Experience with R, Python, Linux, and scientific computing infrastructure is highly beneficial.

Do I need publications?

Yes. A peer-reviewed publication record is specifically requested.

Is German language proficiency required?

The advertisement does not explicitly state a German language requirement, but some knowledge of German may be advantageous for teaching and administrative tasks.

Where is the University of Hohenheim located?

The university is located in Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.

When is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 15 June 2026.