Full Professor Job in Plant-Soil Interactions at University of Hohenheim, Germany
The University of Hohenheim, one of Germany’s leading institutions for agricultural sciences, is inviting applications for a tenured Full Professor (W3) of Plant-Soil Interactions. The position is based in the Institute of Crop Science within the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and is scheduled to be filled by 1 April 2028.
This is an outstanding opportunity for internationally recognized researchers with expertise in plant nutrition, soil health, sustainable agriculture, and crop science who are looking to lead innovative research and teach at one of Europe’s top agricultural universities.
The Full Professor (W3) of Plant-Soil Interactions at the University of Hohenheim is an exceptional opportunity for accomplished researchers in agricultural and environmental sciences. With a tenured appointment, access to world-class research facilities, involvement in the TERRA Cluster of Excellence, and the chance to influence future generations of scientists through teaching, this position offers a rewarding academic career in one of Germany’s leading universities. Researchers with expertise in plant nutrition, soil health, sustainable agriculture, and crop science are encouraged to prepare a comprehensive application and submit it before the 15 September 2026 deadline.
Position Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Position | Full Professor (W3) |
| Field | Plant-Soil Interactions |
| Institution | University of Hohenheim |
| Faculty | Agricultural Sciences |
| Institute | Institute of Crop Science |
| Country | Germany |
| Employment Type | Tenured |
| Planned Start Date | 1 April 2028 |
| Application Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
About the Position
The successful candidate will lead research and teaching in practice-oriented agricultural sciences, with a strong emphasis on plant nutrition and sustainable farming systems.
The university is particularly interested in applicants whose work contributes to improving plant and soil health through innovative agricultural practices.
Research may focus on topics such as:
- Plant nutrition
- Soil health
- Root–soil interactions
- Sustainable fertilization strategies
- Crop production systems
- Agricultural sustainability
- Soil fertility management
- Climate-resilient agriculture
Applicants should demonstrate a strong understanding of modern agricultural systems while promoting environmentally sustainable approaches to food production.
Research Expectations
The appointed professor will be expected to develop an internationally competitive research programme.
Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting greenhouse experiments.
- Leading field trials.
- Publishing in high-impact international journals.
- Securing competitive third-party research funding.
- Supervising doctoral and postdoctoral researchers.
- Collaborating with national and international research partners.
- Contributing to interdisciplinary scientific initiatives.
The university is seeking a researcher with an established international reputation and an excellent publication record in plant and soil sciences.
Participation in the TERRA Cluster of Excellence
A major responsibility of the successful candidate will be active participation in the TERRA – Terrestrial Geo-Biosphere Interactions in a Changing World Cluster of Excellence.
This interdisciplinary research initiative investigates how terrestrial ecosystems respond to environmental and climate change through collaboration across multiple scientific disciplines.
Joining the TERRA Cluster offers opportunities to work alongside leading researchers on globally significant environmental and agricultural challenges.
Teaching Responsibilities
Teaching forms an important part of this professorship.
The successful candidate will deliver courses covering:
- Plant nutrition
- Fertilization strategies
- Crop production
- Sustainable agriculture
- Practice-oriented agricultural sciences
Courses will be taught in both German and English.
International applicants who do not yet speak German are expected to acquire sufficient language proficiency within a reasonable period after appointment.
Candidate Profile
The University of Hohenheim is looking for candidates who can demonstrate:
- Internationally recognized research achievements.
- A strong publication record in leading scientific journals.
- Success in obtaining competitive research funding.
- Experience in interdisciplinary research.
- Expertise in plant nutrition and soil science.
- Capacity to supervise research students.
- Commitment to high-quality university teaching.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should normally possess:
- A habilitation or an equivalent academic qualification.
- An outstanding research and teaching record.
- Experience obtained through a Junior Professorship, Assistant Professorship, or an equivalent academic career pathway.
The university follows the appointment criteria outlined in its official appointment guidelines, which are considered throughout the selection process.
Employment Conditions
This is a tenured W3 professorship, offering long-term academic employment.
For first-time appointments to a full professorship, the University of Hohenheim reserves the right to introduce a probationary period in accordance with German academic regulations.
The university is certified by the German Association of University Professors and Lecturers (DHV) for fair and transparent appointment procedures.
Commitment to Diversity and Equal Opportunity
The University of Hohenheim is committed to creating an inclusive academic environment.
The institution:
- Strongly encourages applications from qualified women.
- Gives preference to applicants with disabilities where qualifications are equal.
- Promotes equal opportunities in research and teaching.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following materials:
- Cover letter
- Statement outlining future research interests
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Complete publication list
- List of third-party funded research projects
- Teaching record
- Teaching evaluation results
- Three selected key publications
Submitting a complete application will help ensure full consideration during the recruitment process.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 15 September 2026 |
| Expected Appointment | 1 April 2028 |
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the closing date.
How to Apply
Please apply online at https://berufungsportal.uni-hohenheim.de/ by September 15, 2026. Before applying, candidates should carefully review the university’s appointment principles and ensure that all required documents are included. Questions regarding the position may be directed to: Prof. Dr. Ludwig Hölzle, Email: Ludwig.Hoelzle@uni-hohenheim.de
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What position is being advertised?
The University of Hohenheim is recruiting a tenured Full Professor (W3) in Plant-Soil Interactions within the Institute of Crop Science.
What are the main research areas?
The role focuses on plant nutrition, soil health, sustainable fertilization, root–soil interactions, crop production, and sustainable agricultural systems.
Is this a permanent position?
Yes. The advertised W3 professorship is a tenured position, although first-time full professor appointments may include a probationary period under university regulations.
What teaching languages are required?
The successful candidate must teach in German and English. International appointees are expected to acquire German language proficiency within a reasonable timeframe.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants should have a habilitation or an equivalent record of research and teaching excellence, along with an internationally recognized publication record and experience securing third-party research funding.
Which documents must be submitted?
Required documents include a cover letter, research statement, CV, transcripts, degree certificates, publication list, list of funded projects, teaching record, teaching evaluations, and three key publications.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted online by 15 September 2026.
When will the position begin?
The successful candidate is expected to take up the professorship on 1 April 2028.
Does the university encourage international applicants?
Yes. International scholars are welcome to apply, provided they meet the academic and teaching requirements. Non-German speakers are expected to learn German after appointment.
Why is this opportunity significant?
This position combines a permanent W3 professorship with leadership opportunities in internationally recognized agricultural research and participation in the prestigious TERRA Cluster of Excellence, making it highly attractive for senior academics seeking to advance research in sustainable agriculture.
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