W3 Professorship for Plant Biotechnology at the University of Freiburg, Germany
The Faculty of Biology at the University of Freiburg is inviting applications for a W3 Professorship in Plant Biotechnology, one of the highest-ranking academic appointments in the German university system. The position is scheduled to commence on April 1, 2027, and offers an outstanding opportunity for internationally recognized researchers to lead innovative research programs in plant biotechnology, molecular plant sciences, and integrative biological signaling.
The university is particularly interested in candidates whose research combines world-class fundamental science with practical biotechnological applications that address global challenges in agriculture, sustainability, and life sciences.
Position Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position Title | W3 Professorship for Plant Biotechnology |
| Institution | University of Freiburg |
| Faculty | Faculty of Biology |
| Location | Freiburg, Germany |
| Employment Type | Full-Time |
| Academic Rank | W3 Professor |
| Application Deadline | July 10, 2026 |
| Start Date | April 1, 2027 |
| Reference Number | 00005002 |
About the Position
The successful candidate will establish and lead an internationally visible research program in plant biotechnology, contributing to Freiburg’s growing reputation as a global center for biological sciences and biotechnology research.
The university seeks researchers working with:
- Plant model systems
- Algal systems
- Molecular plant sciences
- Biotechnology innovation
- Integrative biological signaling
Research programs should demonstrate excellence in both fundamental discovery and translational applications with societal relevance.
Preferred Research Areas
Applicants may come from a broad range of biotechnology and plant science disciplines. Particularly welcome are candidates whose work focuses on:
Signal Processing and Cellular Regulation
Research investigating how biological systems perceive, process, and integrate signals across multiple organizational levels.
Synthetic Biology
Development of engineered biological systems for improved functionality and novel applications.
Chromatin, Protein, and Enzyme Engineering
Innovative approaches to modifying biological processes through advanced molecular design.
Metabolic and Organelle Engineering
Research aimed at optimizing cellular pathways and organelle functions for enhanced productivity and sustainability.
Artificial Intelligence in Biotechnology
Application of AI and data-driven methods to understand and regulate signaling networks and metabolic pathways.
Scale-Spanning Biological Processes
Studies linking molecular and subcellular mechanisms to whole-organism responses and adaptations.
Strategic Research Environment
The new professorship will play a central role in strengthening Freiburg’s internationally recognized research profile.
The position is closely integrated with:
- Signals of Life Research Profile
- Excellence Cluster CIBSS (Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies)
- Collaborative Research Centers (SFBs)
- International Research Consortia
- Graduate Schools and Doctoral Programs
The appointment is expected to enhance Freiburg’s leadership in biotechnology and molecular life sciences at both the European and global levels.
Teaching Responsibilities
The successful professor will contribute to teaching across multiple academic programs.
Teaching duties include courses within:
Bachelor’s Programs
- Biology
- Molecular Life Sciences
- Related Biological Disciplines
Master’s Programs
- Biology
- Advanced Plant Sciences
- Biotechnology
International Biotechnology Program
The professor will also contribute to the trinational degree program in Biotechnology, providing students with an interdisciplinary and international educational experience.
Because part of the teaching responsibilities are conducted in German, applicants should be prepared to teach in German or demonstrate willingness to acquire the necessary language proficiency.
Candidate Profile
The Faculty of Biology seeks an outstanding scientist with:
- An internationally recognized research profile
- Significant achievements in plant biotechnology or related fields
- Strong publication record in leading scientific journals
- Proven success in securing competitive third-party research funding
- Experience supervising students and early-career researchers
- Capacity to build interdisciplinary collaborations
Candidates should demonstrate a clear vision for future research and academic leadership.
Why Join the University of Freiburg?
The University of Freiburg is among Germany’s most prestigious research universities and is internationally known for excellence in life sciences, biotechnology, and interdisciplinary research.
Benefits of joining Freiburg include:
World-Class Research Infrastructure
Researchers gain access to cutting-edge facilities, advanced laboratories, and collaborative research platforms.
International Research Networks
The university maintains strong partnerships with institutions across Europe and worldwide.
Excellence Cluster Participation
The successful candidate will become part of the highly regarded CIBSS Excellence Cluster, a major hub for signaling research.
Supportive Academic Environment
Freiburg offers extensive support for faculty development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and research innovation.
Family and Dual Career Services
The university provides dedicated support for academic families and partners through specialized career and family services.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application package containing:
Academic Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic certificates and credentials
Research Documentation
- Complete publication list
- List of invited lectures
- Identification of the ten most significant publications
- Curated ORCID profile or Google Scholar profile
Research Statement
A concise three-page overview describing:
- Current research activities
- Future research vision
- Scientific goals and impact
Funding Record
A complete list of:
- Previous research projects
- Current projects
- External funding acquired
Teaching Portfolio
A comprehensive overview of previous and current teaching activities.
Application Deadline
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Application Deadline | July 10, 2026 |
| Position Start Date | April 1, 2027 |
| Employment Type | Full-Time |
Applications received after the deadline may not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications should reference Position ID 00005002 and may be submitted in written or electronic form. Email Submission application@biologie.uni-freiburg.de Please send your application including supporting documents mentioned above and the application form citing the reference number 00005002, by 10. July 2026 at the latest. Please send your application to the following address in written or electronic form:
Postal Address
Dean of the Faculty of Biology
Schaenzlestr. 1
D-79104 Freiburg
Germany; Email Submission application@biologie.uni-freiburg.de
Contact Information
For position-specific inquiries, applicants may contact:; Prof. Dr. Oliver Niehuis; Faculty of Biology
University of Freiburg; Telephone: +49 761 203-2506 Email: oliver.niehuis@biologie.uni-freiburg.de
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a W3 Professorship in Germany?
A W3 Professorship is the highest standard professorial rank in the German university system and is comparable to a full professorship at leading international universities.
When does the position begin?
The appointment is scheduled to start on April 1, 2027.
What research areas are preferred?
The university welcomes applicants working in plant biotechnology, synthetic biology, signaling research, metabolic engineering, chromatin engineering, protein design, AI-driven biological regulation, and related fields.
Is external funding experience required?
Yes. Candidates must demonstrate successful acquisition of competitive third-party research funding.
Are international applicants eligible?
Yes. The position is open to qualified candidates from around the world.
Is teaching part of the role?
Yes. The successful candidate will teach in Bachelor’s, Master’s, and trinational Biotechnology programs.
Is knowledge of German required?
Some teaching responsibilities will be conducted in German. Applicants should either possess German language skills or be willing to acquire them.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants must submit a CV, academic credentials, publication list, research statement, funding history, teaching record, and a curated ORCID or Google Scholar profile.
Why is the University of Freiburg attractive for biotechnology researchers?
The university offers access to internationally recognized research centers, Excellence Clusters, collaborative networks, advanced infrastructure, and strong funding opportunities.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by July 10, 2026.
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