The Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) is inviting applications for an exciting Early Career Researcher position in Agroecological Systems. This three-year research appointment offers a rare opportunity to contribute to one of Europe’s most ambitious agroecology projects while pursuing a PhD in agricultural or environmental economics. Based in Müncheberg, just 35 minutes from Berlin by regional train, this position combines academic rigor, policy relevance, and hands-on collaboration with farmers across Europe.

For candidates interested in sustainable agriculture, ecosystem services, agricultural policy, and socio-economic modeling, this opportunity offers both intellectual depth and strong career prospects. This position is particularly suitable for graduates who want to build careers in: Agricultural economics Agroecology Sustainability science Environmental policy Rural development International research organizations If you are motivated by evidence-based solutions to Europe’s agricultural and environmental challenges, this opportunity offers an exceptional foundation for your academic career.

The Early Career Researcher position in Agroecological Systems at ZALF represents an outstanding opportunity for graduates interested in agricultural economics, sustainability transitions, and policy-oriented research. With EU funding, doctoral training potential, and collaboration across six European living labs, this role provides a strong platform for launching an academic or policy career focused on the future of sustainable agriculture in Europe.

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About ZALF: A Leading Agricultural Research Institute in Germany

The Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF) is one of Germany’s premier research institutes dedicated to advancing sustainable agriculture. As a member of the Leibniz Association, ZALF conducts nationally and internationally recognized research focused on developing ecological, economic, and socially viable solutions for agricultural systems. Its headquarters are located in Müncheberg, Brandenburg, with additional research sites in:

• Dedelow
• Paulinenaue
• Giessen
• Witzenhausen
• Geisenheim

ZALF’s work bridges science and society, ensuring that research findings translate into practical solutions for farmers, policymakers, and communities.

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Research Group: Farm Economics and Ecosystem Services

The successful candidate will join ZALF’s Farm Economics and Ecosystem Services group. This interdisciplinary team includes senior researchers and early career scientists working at the intersection of:

• Agricultural economics
• Ecosystem services
• Sustainability transitions
• Rural development
• Agricultural policy

The group is known for its collaborative culture and commitment to producing research with real-world impact.

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About the Agri-TASC Project

This position is funded through the EU Agroecology Partnership project Agri-TASC, supported by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFTR). The project aims to:

• Assess the ecological, economic, and social benefits of agroecological systems
• Test practical innovations in six Living Labs across Europe
• Develop tools for evaluating alternative farming methods
• Produce evidence-based policy recommendations for agricultural transformation

The project offers substantial exposure to international research networks and policy discussions shaping the future of European agriculture.

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Position Overview

Job Title: Early Career Researcher – Agroecological Systems (f/m/d)
Reference Number: 25-2026
Institution: ZALF
Location: Müncheberg, Brandenburg, Germany
Start Date: Earliest possible start in August 2026
Contract Duration: 36 months
Working Time: 65% of full-time employment
Salary Scale: Up to TV-L E13 (including annual special payment)
Application Deadline: 31 May 2026

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Key Responsibilities

Socio-Economic Assessment of Agroecological Systems

You will develop, adapt, and apply assessment models to evaluate the economic and social impacts of agroecological practices.

Scenario Development and Policy Analysis

The role includes designing future scenarios and translating findings into evidence-based policy recommendations for agroecological transitions.

Collaboration Across European Living Labs

You will work directly with farmers, researchers, and stakeholders in six Living Labs across Europe to explore practical and institutional innovations.

Scientific Writing and Dissemination

The position involves preparing research papers, reports, and potentially doctoral publications.

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Eligibility Requirements

Applicants should possess:

• A completed master’s degree in agricultural economics, environmental economics, or a closely related discipline
• Strong understanding of European farming systems
• Experience conducting surveys within farming communities
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Strong interest in scientific writing
• Excellent English language proficiency
• Very good German language skills, given the project’s focus on German agricultural systems

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Why This Position Stands Out

Opportunity to Earn a PhD

ZALF explicitly offers the possibility to pursue a doctoral degree related to the project.

Competitive Public Sector Salary

The position is classified up to TV-L E13, one of the highest salary grades commonly offered to doctoral researchers in Germany.

Interdisciplinary Research Environment

You will collaborate with economists, ecologists, and practitioners from multiple European countries.

Work-Life Balance

ZALF emphasizes healthy working conditions and offers flexible arrangements.

Professional Development

Candidates gain access to internal and external training courses relevant to their PhD research.

Mobility Benefits

The package includes a job ticket for regional public transportation in Germany.

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Living in Müncheberg and the Berlin Region

Müncheberg offers a quiet research environment while remaining within easy reach of Berlin.

This combination allows researchers to enjoy:

• Lower living costs than central Berlin
• Access to a vibrant international academic community
• Excellent public transport connections
• High quality of life

For international researchers, this setting offers the best of both worlds: focused research conditions and metropolitan opportunities.

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Salary Expectations: TV-L E13 at 65%

Under the German public sector pay scale, a 65% TV-L E13 position typically provides a strong doctoral stipend equivalent, with additional benefits such as pension contributions, health insurance, and paid leave.

Exact net income depends on tax class, insurance choices, and personal circumstances.

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Diversity and Equal Opportunity

ZALF is committed to equal opportunity and welcomes applications regardless of:

• Ethnic or cultural background
• Age
• Religion or worldview
• Disability
• Gender identity
• Sexual orientation

Part-time arrangements are generally possible.

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Application Process

Applications should be submitted preferably through APPLY NOW. For email applications, combine all documents into one PDF file (maximum 5 MB), including:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Degree certificates
• Academic transcripts
• Relevant supporting documents

Reference the application with 25-2026.

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Application Deadline

31 May 2026 Late applications may not be considered, so early submission is strongly recommended.

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Contact Information

For academic questions about the position, applicants may contact: Dr. Johannes Schuler
Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research (ZALF)
Phone: +49 (0) 33432 82-378

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Data Protection Notice

ZALF processes applicant data in accordance with Articles 5 and 6 of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Personal data are used solely for recruitment purposes and are deleted six months after the end of the selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this position fully funded?

Yes. The position is funded through the EU Agroecology Partnership project Agri-TASC and includes salary under the TV-L E13 pay scale.

Can I pursue a PhD while working in this role?

Yes. ZALF explicitly states that the position offers the opportunity to pursue a PhD in a related discipline.

Is German language proficiency mandatory?

Yes. Very good German is required because the project includes work related to German agricultural systems and engagement with local stakeholders.

What is the duration of the contract?

The appointment is for 36 months, subject to project funding.

Is the job full-time?

No. The contract is part-time at 65% of standard weekly working hours, which is common for PhD positions in Germany.

Where is Müncheberg located?

Müncheberg is in Brandenburg, approximately 35 minutes by regional train from Berlin-Lichtenberg.

What salary can I expect?

The salary is based on the German public service scale TV-L E13 at 65% employment, plus an annual special payment.

Do I need prior experience with surveys?

Yes. Experience conducting surveys among farming communities is specifically listed as a preferred qualification.

Are international applicants welcome?

Yes. ZALF welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of nationality or background, provided language requirements are met.

What documents are required?

Applicants should submit a CV, proof of qualifications, certificates, and other relevant documents in a single PDF file.

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