The Leipzig University is inviting applications for a Research Associate (m/f/d/x) in Botany with specialization in Plant Taxonomy and Plant Physiology at the Faculty of Life Sciences. This academic position offers an opportunity for qualified biologists to contribute to university teaching, botanical research, laboratory education, and field-based scientific activities. The role is part of an innovative teacher education collaboration between Leipzig University and University of Applied Sciences Zittau/Görlitz. The position is particularly suitable for candidates with expertise in plant sciences who are interested in combining research, higher education, and biological knowledge transfer.

This Research Associate opportunity combines three important areas of academic work: Plant science research – University-level biology teaching – Practical field and laboratory education. It is an excellent opportunity for botanists who want to develop their academic career while contributing to modern biology teacher education in Germany. The role offers professional stability, public-sector employment benefits, and the chance to work within an innovative educational research environment.

The Research Associate position in Botany at Leipzig University offers a valuable opportunity for plant scientists specializing in taxonomy and physiology. Combining academic teaching, laboratory instruction, field research, and biology education innovation, this role is ideal for candidates seeking a career in higher education and botanical sciences in Germany. Qualified applicants with strong botanical expertise and advanced German language skills should apply before the July 2026 deadline.

---

Position Overview

Job Title: Research Associate (m/f/d/x) in Botany
Specialization: Plant Taxonomy and Plant Physiology
Faculty: Faculty of Life Sciences
Workplace: University of Applied Sciences Zittau/Görlitz, Zittau, Germany
Employer: Leipzig University
Reference Number: 76/2026

Starting Date: 1 September 2026
Contract Duration: Until 30 September 2028
Employment Level: Full-time (100%), part-time possible at 50%
Salary: Remuneration Group 13 TV-L

---

About Leipzig University and the Teaching Innovation Project

Founded in 1409, Leipzig University is one of Germany’s oldest and most research-oriented universities. With approximately 30,000 students and more than 5,000 employees across 14 faculties, the university provides a dynamic international environment for research, teaching, and academic development. The position is connected to a new teacher education model established by Leipzig University together with the University of Applied Sciences Zittau/Görlitz. The innovative program combines:

• Two teaching subjects for secondary education
• Special education training with a focus on learning support
• Biology teacher preparation
• Inclusive education practices

Through this collaboration, both institutions aim to develop modern approaches to biology education and prepare future teachers for diverse classroom environments.

---

Responsibilities and Duties

The successful candidate will contribute to teaching, research support, and academic services. University Teaching: The position includes approximately 8 teaching hours per week (SWS) during academic years. Teaching responsibilities include:

Plant Taxonomy Courses

• Lectures and practical courses
• Plant identification exercises
• Microscopic examination sessions
• Botanical species recognition training

Plant Physiology Courses

• Lectures
• Laboratory internships
• Practical experiments
• Seminars related to plant physiological processes

General Biology Education

• Supporting biology lectures
• Conducting seminars
• Developing educational materials for biology teaching

---

Research and Scientific Activities

The Research Associate will also contribute to:

• Scientific services in research and teaching
• Development of botanical educational resources
• Organization and implementation of fieldwork
• Collaboration within biological research and teacher education projects

The position provides opportunities to apply botanical expertise in both academic research and practical education.

---

Required Qualifications

Applicants should have:

• A completed university degree (Master’s, Diploma, or State Examination)
• Degree specialization in biology or related disciplines
• Strong background in botany

Preferred expertise includes:

• Plant taxonomy knowledge
• Plant species identification skills
• Understanding of plant physiology
• Experience conducting plant physiology laboratory courses
• Basic ecological knowledge

---

Language Requirements

Applicants must have:

• Strong German language proficiency
• Minimum required level: C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)

Since the position involves teaching biology courses, excellent written and spoken German communication skills are essential.

---

Preferred Experience

Additional advantages include:

• Previous teaching experience
• Experience explaining biological concepts to students
• Ability to develop educational content
• Practical experience in biological teaching methods

Candidates interested in science communication and biology education are especially encouraged to apply.

---

Benefits and Employment Conditions

Leipzig University offers: Competitive Public Sector Salary: The position is classified according to: TV-L 13 pay group Benefits include:

• Annual special payment
• Company pension scheme
• Public sector employment conditions

Professional Development

Employees receive:

• Career development support
• Continuing education opportunities
• Training programs throughout different professional stages

Transport Benefits

The university provides access to discounted public transportation options, including job ticket benefits such as reduced Germany Ticket options.

---

Diversity and Equal Opportunity

Leipzig University promotes diversity and equal opportunities in research, teaching, and administration. Applications are welcomed regardless of:

• Gender
• Nationality
• Religion
• Cultural or social background
• Age
• Sexual orientation

The university particularly encourages applications from qualified women to increase representation in responsible academic positions. Candidates with severe disabilities or equivalent status under German Social Code IX (SGB IX) will receive preference when qualifications are equal.

---

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their application through APPLY NOW. Applications should be addressed to: Ms. Dr. Irene Coin, Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences. Required application materials should include:

• Curriculum vitae
• Academic certificates
• Proof of qualifications
• Cover letter explaining suitability for the position
• Application Deadline: 9 July 2026
• APPLY NOW

---

Contact Information

For questions regarding the academic content of the position: Ms. Katrin Lyko
Coordinator, Teacher Education Program Telephone: 03581/3744986

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the position offered by Leipzig University?

Leipzig University is offering a Research Associate position in Botany specializing in Plant Taxonomy and Plant Physiology.

2. Where is the workplace located?

The position is based at the University of Applied Sciences Zittau/Görlitz in Zittau, Germany.

3. What salary is offered?

The position follows the German public service salary system and is classified as TV-L 13.

4. Is this position full-time?

Yes. The position is offered at 100% employment, but part-time work at 50% is possible.

5. What academic background is required?

Applicants need a completed university degree in biology or a related subject with specialization in botany.

6. Is German language required?

Yes. Applicants must have secure German language skills at a minimum C1 level because the position involves teaching responsibilities.

7. What subjects will the researcher teach?

Teaching areas include plant taxonomy, plant physiology, laboratory practicals, microscopy exercises, and biology seminars.

8. Is teaching experience necessary?

Teaching experience is not mandatory but is desirable, especially experience in explaining biological concepts and developing educational materials.

9. What is the contract duration?

The fixed-term contract runs until 30 September 2028, starting from 1 September 2026.

10. When is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 9 July 2026